Delhi health authorities on Sunday released an advisory to prepare for potential health challenges linked to Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and other respiratory viruses amid growing cases in China.
Medical facilities were directed to maintain detailed records of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases and lab-confirmed influenza cases to ensure accurate monitoring.
They were further advised to stock up on medicines like paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and cough syrups, along with oxygen for treating mild cases.
Hospitals have been instructed to report cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) on the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal, reported news agency PTI. Strict isolation protocols and universal precautions have been mandated for suspected cases.
The advisory follows reports of a rise in respiratory illnesses in China. However, updates from the IDSP, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate no significant surge in respiratory illnesses in India as of January 2, 2025, officials said.
Top Delhi health official Dr Vandana Bagga held a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to discuss readiness to manage respiratory illnesses.
The advisory from the Delhi government came days after the Union Health Ministry said that there was no need to be alarmed and asked citizens to take regular precautions, like in the case of respiratory diseases.
The virus primarily targets the respiratory system, causing mild to severe infections. The transmission of the disease occurs through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Even though they belong to different viral families, many have likened HMPV to Covid-19 virus as their symptoms are strikingly similar when it comes to its transmission and symptoms as well.
Like COVID, HMPV also targets the respiratory system. Like COVID, HMPV also affects immunocompromised individuals, children and adults.
HMPV typically causes symptoms resembling a common cold, such as cough, wheezing, runny nose, or sore throat.
However, in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, the virus can lead to severe respiratory complications, requiring prompt medical attention.
