New Delhi, 7 February (IANS). A total of 59 cases of Human Metapnumovirus (HMPV) have been reported from 11 states and union territories between 6 and 29 January in India. It is a breathing disease. This information was given by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav on Friday.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Jadhav said that the government has taken several steps to monitor this virus and prevent its spread.
He said that from January 6, the Public Health Emergency Operations Center has been activated at the National Disease Control Center, which is regular monitoring of HMPV cases.
Prataprao Jadhav said that there is already a strong monitoring system in the country, which keeps an eye on diseases like flu and serious respiratory diseases (SARIs). It works under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Integrated Disease Monitoring Program (IDSP).
States and union territories have been advised to be vigilant and to send virus research and diagnostic laboratories (VRDLS) for samples examination of hospitalized patients.
Jadhav said that according to IDSP data, there has been no unusual growth in ILI and SARI cases in the country. It has also been confirmed by monitoring ICMR.
The government also conducted a preparation exercise across the country, ensuring that the health system is fully prepared to deal with seasonal diseases of breath. In addition, states have been advised to conduct awareness campaigns about HMPV symptoms and prevention methods.
HMPV was first discovered in 2001. The virus is part of the Pnumoviride family and is associated with the RSV virus. Common symptoms of this infection include cough, fever, nasal closure and shortness of breathing.
The Ministry of Health has given simple measures to prevent infection, such as-frequent hand washing with soap and water, not touching the eyes, nose and mouth with hands, avoiding going close to the infected person, coughing or sneezing And covering nose etc.
-IANS
AS/
