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India’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has reassured the public regarding concerns over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. According to Atul Goel, a senior DGHS official, the virus is comparable to other common respiratory viruses and does not require undue alarm. Instead, he emphasized the importance of basic preventive measures to stay safe.
Understanding HMPV
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms similar to the common cold, such as fever, cough, and fatigue. While it can lead to flu-like symptoms in young children and the elderly, its impact is typically mild for most individuals.
“There has been news about a Metapneumovirus outbreak in China. Let me be very clear: it is like any other respiratory virus that causes common cold. In vulnerable groups like the very old or very young, it might cause flu-like symptoms,” said Goel during a press briefing on January 3.
No Significant Rise in Cases in India
Goel reassured the public that the situation in India remains stable. A detailed analysis of respiratory outbreaks in December 2024 revealed no significant increase in cases.
“We’ve analyzed data on respiratory outbreaks within the country and found no substantial rise. No large-scale cases have been reported from our institutions,” he noted.
Preventive Steps Are Key
While there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, Goel emphasized the importance of preventive care to minimize the risk of infection.
“Basic hygiene practices are sufficient to tackle the situation. Use a separate handkerchief or towel for coughing and sneezing, and take over-the-counter medicines for cold or fever if needed. Beyond that, there’s no cause for alarm,” he advised.
The DGHS official also assured the public that Indian hospitals are fully prepared to manage seasonal surges in respiratory infections. Adequate supplies of medicines and hospital beds are in place to handle any unexpected increase in cases.
Monitoring and Preparedness
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), operating under India’s Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases. The agency is also working closely with international organizations to stay updated and prepared.
ANI reported that the NCDC has strengthened surveillance to ensure timely responses to any potential health threats.
HMPV vs. COVID-19: No Comparison Needed
Reports of the HMPV outbreak in China have sparked fears of another global health crisis similar to COVID-19. However, Goel dismissed these parallels, emphasizing that the current situation does not warrant panic.
“The present situation is far from alarming. There is no indication that this virus poses the same level of threat as COVID-19,” he clarified.
International Concerns Over China's Transparency
China’s response to the outbreak has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding its transparency in handling respiratory illnesses. On December 31, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged China to share more data about COVID-19’s origins, calling it a “moral and scientific imperative.”
In response, China defended its efforts, stating it had made significant contributions to global research and had shared COVID-19 information “without holding anything back.”
Conclusion
While news of the HMPV outbreak in China has raised global concerns, health officials in India have urged calm. HMPV is a manageable respiratory virus, and preventive steps such as maintaining good hygiene and seeking timely medical attention are sufficient to address its impact. With robust monitoring and preparedness in place, India remains well-equipped to handle seasonal respiratory infections.
