HMPV Guidelines In India:As concerns over HMPV cases continue to rise in India, two additional cases have been reported from Nagpur, Maharashtra, today on January 7, 2025, following reports of a rise in HMPV cases in China. This brings the total number of HMPV cases in the country to seven. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause mild to severe infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.
States across India have been urged to enhance public awareness about preventive measures against Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). In addition, authorities have recommended strengthening surveillance for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) to track and manage potential cases effectively. These guidelines safeguard public health by ensuring timely detection, treatment, and prevention measures. Here’s a closer look at the HMPV guidelines issued by state governments and the importance of these protocols:
What Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB) portal’s latest press release, it states, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages, particularly during the winter and early spring months. The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own. It was informed that adequate diagnostic facilities are available with the ICMR-VRDL laboratories.”
The press release further states, “The states were advised to enhance IEC and awareness among the population regarding prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures such as washing hands often with soap and water; avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are exhibiting symptoms of the disease; cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, etc.”
Latest Update On HMPV
#WATCH | Health experts have clarified that #HMPVVirus is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world for many years. On recent reports, the cases of HMPV in China, @MoHFW_INDIA, @ICMRDELHI, and @NCDCMoHFW are keeping a close… pic.twitter.com/zgz26o9Lfo
— DD News (@DDNewslive) January 6, 2025
Following the detection of HMPV cases, the health ministry has urged states to enhance and review surveillance of ILI and SARI. So far, India has confirmed seven cases of HMPV infections in children, with reported cases in Bengaluru, Nagpur, and Ahmedabad. State governments have developed a set of protocols for healthcare facilities and frontline workers to deal with HMPV cases. These guidelines typically emphasise:
HMPV Health Advisory By Delhi Government
Dr Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, held a meeting on January 5, 2025, with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to review and discuss the preparedness for managing respiratory illnesses in Delhi. The statement reads, "As of January 2, 2025, data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) show no significant surge in respiratory cases in India."
The advisory advises hospitals to carefully monitor and report cases of ILI and SARI via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal. It also recommends implementing standard safety measures, such as isolating suspected cases to prevent further spread. “The guidelines also directed hospitals to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, including paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, cough syrups, and oxygen supplies, to manage mild cases”, as stated by The Tribune report.
HMPV Health Advisory By Karnataka Government
The Directorate of Medical Education, Karnataka issues advisory titled 'Do Not Panic, Be Aware', after two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru.#hmpvvirus pic.twitter.com/BDPTRdEU8c
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025
After two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru, the Directorate of Medical Education in Karnataka released an advisory titled ‘Do Not Panic, Be Aware’ to assure the public.
The official notice mentioned the HMPV symptoms, transmission, treatment, current status in India, key measures, important notes, and medical preparedness.
HMPV Health Advisory By Gujarat Government
Vadodara, Gujarat: Health Minister Rushikesh Patel on HMPV case says, "...We need to follow the SOPs and guidelines issued by the Rajasthan government, which will likely be released today. In Gujarat, the available beds are sufficient, including ventilator beds and oxygen… pic.twitter.com/A9EqtdjHWd
— IANS (@ians_india) January 6, 2025
Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel has urged the people not to panic after HMPV was detected in a two-month-old boy in Ahmedabad recently. He emphasised that the state government is well-prepared to manage and address the situation concerning HMPV.
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HMPV Health Advisory By Maharashtra Government
Maharashtra's Nagpur on January 7, 2025, reported 2 HMPV cases which makes a total of 7 cases in India. The Maharashtra government has issued an advisory, urging district administrations to stay alert and increase surveillance of patients displaying symptoms such as cold and cough.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on January 6, 2025, said, “There is no reason to fear the HMPV virus. According to preliminary information, this virus is not new, this virus was prevalent earlier also. It seems that this virus is making a comeback once again. The regulations in this regard will be announced. The Union Health Ministry has decided to inform the states. Do not give fictitious information in this regard. Only the official information that comes should be given.”
Former WHO Chief Scientist: “HMPvirus Is Nothing To Panic About.”
#HMPvirus is nothing to panic about. It’s a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild. Rather than jump at detection of every pathogen, we shld all take normal precautions when we have a cold: wear a mask, wash hands, avoid crowds, consult Dr if severe symptoms
— Soumya Swaminathan (@doctorsoumya) January 6, 2025
World Health Organization’s former Chief Scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), “#HMPvirus is nothing to panic about. It’s a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild. Rather than jump at detection of every pathogen, we should all take normal precautions when we have a cold: wear a mask, wash hands, avoid crowds, consult Dr if severe symptoms.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet released a statement regarding the outbreak of the virus in China, and neither the global health body has shared anything.
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Image credit: Freepik and Twitter
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