Fadnavis Urges Maharashtra Residents to Stay Calm Amid HMPV Concerns
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Mumbai, Jan 7 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis urged the citizens of Maharashtra on Monday not to succumb to panic and to disregard misleading information concerning human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
“We are currently in discussions with the Health Ministry, and the necessary measures will be communicated shortly. There is no cause for alarm,” he stated.
His message was prompted by the recent identification of two cases of HMPV by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in Karnataka. The Health Ministry reported that both cases were detected through routine monitoring of various respiratory viral pathogens, which is part of ICMR’s ongoing initiative to track respiratory illnesses nationwide.
“There is no reason to be afraid of the HMPV virus. Preliminary data indicates that this virus is not a new threat; it has been present before and seems to be resurfacing. The relevant regulations will be announced soon. The Union Health Ministry plans to notify the states. Please refrain from spreading unverified information; only rely on official updates,” added Fadnavis.
Previously, the state health department clarified on Monday that there have been no reported cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Maharashtra. Nevertheless, the health department has issued a directive for district administrations to maintain vigilance and enhance surveillance of patients exhibiting cold and cough symptoms.
According to Health Department Director Dr Nitin Ambadekar, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is responsible for respiratory infections. This virus was first recognized in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a prevalent respiratory virus that affects the upper respiratory tract, particularly during seasonal epidemics in winter and early summer, similar to influenza. So far, no cases of HMPV have been recorded in our state.”
In light of the heightened risk associated with HMPV, the Health Department has reviewed the state’s respiratory infection trends. There has been no rise in respiratory infections within the state in December 2024 compared to 2023. As a safety measure, the health department advises residents to take precautions against respiratory illnesses. They have also published guidelines on what citizens should and shouldn't do.
