After having reported three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the country, the Health Minister, JP Nadda, addressed fellow citizens to refrain from worrying. JP Nadda further said that the disease is not a new virus, thus inducing panic among the people regarding HMPV.
As stated by the Health Minister, HMPV is a well-studied respiratory virus that generally does not pose any significant public health threats. The reported cases in India are isolated, and the patients are stable under observation. The Ministry of Health is continually monitoring the situation, having earlier made advisories to health facilities to be cautious in the events of proper case diagnosis and treatment.
What HMPV infects
It is primarily a respiratory virus that impacts children, the elderly, and those with compromised immunity. The most apparent symptoms feature fever, cough, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath; these can also be taken for those of a common cold or flu. Since it has been manifest around the world for several years, health experts say such cases are manageable through standard treatment.
Government Precautionary Measures and Advisory to Public
The Health Ministry has given an assurance that all measures are in place for preventing such inevitable spread of the virus. Hospitals have been directed towards augment strict vigilance and testing for HMPV in any person with a history of severe respiratory symptoms.
JP Nadda also stressed the significance of very basic hygiene practices, including frequent hand-washing, the wearing of facemasks in crowded places, and especially visiting doctors when the respiratory symptoms become more persistent. It also discouraged the spread of misinformation and fear mongering; he asked people to wait for official releases.
However, with the advent of HMPV cases in India, Health Minister JP Nadda, as if to instill confidence and shun unnecessary panic, has declared that they currently are not much of a concern. It is kept well under control with proper medical protocols and public cooperation.