Health Ministry urges states to strengthen surveillance amid HMPV cases

The health ministry has asked the states to strengthen and review Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory surveillance (SARI) following detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases.

The Union Health Secretary on Monday reviewed the situation of respiratory illnesses in the country, and status of public health measures for their management.

While there is no surge in the country of respiratory illness, states have been asked for sturdy surveillance to detect such cases.


“States have been advised to strengthen awareness among masses regarding preventive measures,” the health ministry said.

During the meeting, it was reiterated that the data from IDSP does not indicate any unusual rise in ILI/SARI cases anywhere in the country. This is also corroborated by the ICMR sentinel surveillance data.

The Health Secretary emphasised that there is no cause of concern for the public from HMPV which has been present globally since 2001.

She reiterated that an increase in respiratory illnesses is usually seen during the winter months. She also stated that the country is well prepared for any potential surge in respiratory illness cases.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages particularly during the winter and early spring months. The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limitingcondition and most cases recover on their own.

“It was informed that adequate diagnostic facilities are available with the ICMR-VRDL laboratories”.

The states were advised to enhance awareness regarding prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures such as washing hands often with soap and water; avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are exhibiting symptoms of the disease; cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.