India has clarified that there is no unusual rise in influenza-like illnesses (ILI) or severe acute respiratory illnesses (SARI) across the country, even as reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases surge in China. The Union Health Ministry issued a statement following a meeting chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in New Delhi.
Table of Contents
Key Highlights
- Cause of China’s Surge: Experts identified influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and HMPV as the expected seasonal pathogens contributing to the rise in China.
- India’s Monitoring Measures:
- A robust surveillance system for ILI and SARI is in place through the ICMR and IDSP networks, with no unusual trends reported.
- Data from hospitals confirmed the absence of any significant surge in respiratory illnesses beyond seasonal variations.
- The ICMR continues to monitor pathogens like adenovirus, RSV, and HMPV, with no substantial increases noted.
- Enhanced Testing for HMPV:
- The ICMR will increase the number of laboratories testing for HMPV.
- Year-long monitoring trends for HMPV will also be undertaken as a precaution.
- Preparedness and Response:
- India’s recent nationwide preparedness drill confirmed adequate resources, including hospital beds and medical supplies, to manage respiratory outbreaks.
- Public health officials, including DGHS’s Dr. Atul Goel, emphasized that there is no need for panic.
Dr. Goel’s Statement
Dr. Goel highlighted that HMPV is akin to other respiratory viruses, causing common cold-like symptoms. While it may lead to flu-like symptoms in vulnerable populations (young children and the elderly), there is no specific antiviral treatment for the virus. Preventive measures remain key.
Government’s Assurance
The government reassured citizens that it is closely monitoring the situation through global updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and domestic surveillance networks. Physicians recommend maintaining general precautions to curb the spread of respiratory infections.
Bottom Line: India is well-prepared and has not observed any alarming trends in respiratory illness cases. Citizens are urged to remain cautious but avoid unnecessary panic.