India urges states to boost surveillance of HMPV cases

new Delhi, 7 Jan – In response to the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, India's federal health ministry has urged states to strengthen their monitoring of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI).

During a review of respiratory illnesses in the country on Monday, the federal health secretary evaluated the existing public health measures for managing such infections.

The health ministry stated that data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) shows no unusual rise in ILI or SARI cases across the country, a finding supported by sentinel surveillance data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

HMPV is among the respiratory viruses that affect individuals of all ages, particularly during winter and early spring. Although infections are typically mild and self-limiting, most patients recover without complications.

States have been advised to educate the public on preventive measures, including frequent handwashing with soap, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, and maintaining distance from individuals displaying symptoms.