- Union Health Secretary Reviews Respiratory Illness Situation and Preventive Measures in India
UditVani, New Delhi: In a virtual meeting, Union Health Secretary Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava reviewed the current situation of respiratory illnesses in India and the public health response to HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), following media reports of a surge in cases in China. The meeting was attended by key officials including Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary (DHR), Dr. (Prof) Atul Goel, DGHS, and experts from NCDC, IDSP, ICMR, and State Surveillance Units.
No Surge in Respiratory Illness Cases Across the Country
During the meeting, it was made clear that data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR’s sentinel surveillance have shown no unusual increase in cases of Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) in India. This information was reassuring to health authorities, confirming that there is no immediate cause for concern regarding respiratory illnesses.
States Advised to Strengthen Surveillance and Awareness Campaigns
The Union Health Secretary emphasized the importance of strengthening and reviewing ILI/SARI surveillance systems. She also called on states to increase awareness among the public about preventive measures against respiratory illnesses. Simple actions such as regular hand washing with soap, avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals, and covering the mouth and nose while sneezing and coughing were recommended to prevent transmission.
Understanding HMPV and Its Management in India
Ms. Srivastava reassured the public that there is no significant risk posed by HMPV, a respiratory virus that has been present globally since 2001. While the virus can cause mild infections, it is self-limiting and most cases recover without medical intervention. Health authorities also confirmed the availability of adequate diagnostic facilities through ICMR-VRDL laboratories across the country.
In conclusion, the Union Health Secretary highlighted that India is well-prepared to manage any potential surge in respiratory illnesses, especially during the winter months when such conditions are more common.
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