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New Delhi, February 8, 2025 – In response to concerns surrounding the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has implemented multiple measures to track and control its spread. While data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) indicate no unusual rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases, the government is taking proactive steps to ensure public safety.
Government Measures to Control HMPV
Since January 6, 2025, a total of 59 HMPV cases have been reported across 11 States/UTs in India. To effectively monitor and respond to the situation, the following measures have been taken:
- Public Health Emergency Operation Centre (PHEOC) Activation: The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has activated the PHEOC for real-time monitoring of HMPV cases. A daily Situational Report (SitRep) is shared with relevant stakeholders.
- Enhanced Surveillance and Testing: States and Union Territories have been directed to maintain vigilance and send respiratory samples from hospitalized SARI cases to designated Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) for testing and genetic sequencing.
- Existing Surveillance Systems in Place: A robust surveillance system for ILI and SARI, managed through both ICMR and IDSP networks, continues to monitor influenza trends in the country.
- Public Awareness Initiatives: The government has advised states to intensify Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns. Preventive measures emphasized include frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, maintaining distance from symptomatic individuals, and covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
- Preparedness Drills: Nationwide preparedness drills have been conducted to assess the readiness of the healthcare system in handling seasonal spikes in respiratory illnesses.
- High-Level Review Meetings: The Secretary of Health & Family Welfare, Director General of Health Services, and other stakeholders, including ICMR, IDSP, and NCDC representatives, have held multiple meetings to review the current situation and ensure coordination across various health agencies.
- Strengthening ILI/SARI Surveillance: States have been advised to review and enhance their existing surveillance mechanisms to detect any potential increase in cases early.
Government’s Assurance
The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, recently addressed the issue in a written statement to the Lok Sabha. The government remains confident that the healthcare infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the current situation and prevent any escalation of HMPV cases.
Disclaimer:
This report is based on official data from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, ICMR, and IDSP. While the measures taken are aimed at controlling the spread of HMPV, the public is encouraged to stay informed through official government sources and follow recommended preventive guidelines.
