The ministry confirmed that no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases has been reported in the country
GUWAHATI: The Union Health Ministry has confirmed that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new occurrence in India, with cases already circulating globally, including within the country.
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This was confirmed by Health Minister J.P. Nadda via a video statement on Monday, January 6.
“HMPV spreads through air via respiration and can affect all age groups. However, our health systems and surveillance networks are vigilant, and there is no reason to worry,” Nadda said. He also highlighted that the World Health Organization (WHO) has taken cognisance of the situation, and agencies in India are closely monitoring developments in neighbouring countries, including China.
The ministry further confirmed that no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases has been reported in the country. Data from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) have also supported this assessment.
Earlier, isolated cases of HMPV were reported in Karnataka, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Two infants from Karnataka were diagnosed during routine respiratory illness surveillance by the ICMR, while a two-month-old boy from Rajasthan, born prematurely, was detected with HMPV in Ahmedabad. Officials confirmed that none of these cases have travel history.
