Maharashtra Government Establishes Task Force Following Two Cases of HMPV in Nagpur
Click to start listening
Mumbai, Jan 7 (NationPress) Two instances of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were confirmed in Nagpur, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, as reported by officials. Both affected individuals are children and are currently in stable condition.
The girls, aged 13 and 7, exhibited symptoms consistent with the virus. As per sources from the state public health department, after experiencing two days of persistent fever, the girls underwent testing at a private facility, which resulted in a positive diagnosis. They have been receiving treatment at home and their condition remains stable.
In response to the situation, the state government has formed a Task Force led by Dr. Pallavi Saple, the Dean of JJ Hospital, to develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) and determine the next steps.
According to sources, “Both girls presented with cough and fever, and their samples were sent to NIV due to some atypical symptoms. Fortunately, neither child required hospitalization, and both have since recovered.”
Dr. Avinash Gawande, Superintendent of Government Medical and Hospital in Nagpur, reassured parents by stating, “There is no need for concern; this virus is not akin to Corona. It is relatively mild.” Nevertheless, he recommended that children should wear masks.
Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar convened an urgent departmental meeting regarding the HMPV virus, with Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav expected to attend. The minister urged the public to remain calm.
Rajiv Nivatkar, the medical education commissioner, held a virtual discussion with the Deans of government medical colleges to assess their readiness for handling HMPV cases and to outline necessary measures.
The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has activated alert protocols, establishing special wards for the treatment of HMPV patients.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis commented on Monday, “There is no cause for alarm regarding the HMPV virus. Preliminary information indicates that this virus is not new; it has been around previously and appears to be resurfacing. Regulations will be announced soon, and the Union Health Ministry will keep states informed. Disinformation should be avoided; only official updates should be disseminated.”
The state health department has issued guidelines urging local administrations to maintain vigilance and enhance surveillance for patients presenting with cold and cough symptoms.
Dr. Nitin Ambadekar, the Health Department Director, explained, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is responsible for respiratory infections. Initially detected in the Netherlands in 2001, it is a common respiratory virus affecting the upper respiratory tract. It typically causes seasonal epidemics during winter and early summer, similar to influenza. With the heightened concern over HMPV, our department has reviewed respiratory infection statistics statewide. There was no notable increase in respiratory infections in December 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. As a precaution, the Health Department advises citizens to take measures to protect themselves from respiratory infections, and has released a list of recommended dos and don’ts for the public.”
