'Influenza cases being monitored, no need for alarm', says government amid 'COVID-like' HMPV virus outbreak in China

The Union Health Ministry has said that respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in India are being closely monitored by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) amid reports of an outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. According to NCDC officials, currently, there are no reasons for concern in India over the HMPV outbreak in China.

CREDIT: BCCL

What is Human Metapneumovirus

According to Dr Atul Goel, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the Human Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold, and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old.

No increase in influenza cases in India

"There is news doing the rounds about a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. However, we have analysed the data of the respiratory outbreaks in the country (India), and there is no substantial increase in the December 2024 data and no cases which have been reported in large numbers from any of our institutions. There is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation," he said.

"In any case, during winters there is an increased outbreak of respiratory infections for which usually our hospitals are prepared with necessary supplies and beds," Dr Goel stated.

CREDIT: BCCL

Precautions against HMPV

He advised the public to take the general precautions that are used to prevent respiratory infections, which means if someone has a cough and cold, they should avoid coming into contact with others so that the infection does not spread.

HMPV outbreak in China triggers panic

Amid growing fears of a 2020 COVID-19 pandemic-like outbreak in China, authorities there downplayed the HMPV spread, calling it an annual occurrence in winter.

CREDIT: BRICS NEWS

In recent days, there have been reports of Chinese hospitals being overwhelmed by patients seeking treatment for HMPV infection. As panic spreads, many are also cautioning against travelling to China.

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'China is safe'

However, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that "respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season, and it was not a matter of concern."

"I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China. It is safe to travel in China," the spokesperson said.

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