Maharashtra Ministers Assure Public Amid HMPV Concerns: No Immediate Threat
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Mumbai, Jan 7 (NationPress) Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif and Health Minister Prakash Abitkar stated on Tuesday that there is no need for concern regarding the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Maharashtra at this time.
During a press briefing, the Ministers confirmed that the two schoolgirls from Nagpur, who tested positive for HMPV, are in a stable condition.
This briefing followed a cabinet meeting where Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assessed the government's readiness to respond to HMPV.
Minister Mushrif emphasized that HMPV is not a new virus, as it has been around since 2001.
"It is a minor illness, with symptoms such as coughing and sneezing. There is absolutely no reason to panic," he stated.
He also mentioned that he, along with the Medical Education Secretary and Medical Education Commissioner, conducted a virtual review of the state's measures to combat HMPV.
The HMPV virus was initially identified in the Netherlands in 2001.
"It is a common respiratory virus that typically affects the upper respiratory tract. It tends to cause seasonal outbreaks during winter and early summer, similar to the flu," he added.
According to the minister, the state government successfully managed the coronavirus pandemic and is fully prepared to handle the HMPV situation.
Minister Abitkar noted that the virus primarily poses a significant risk to minors and the elderly, rather than the general population.
"The government has implemented necessary precautions and strategies to address this situation," he remarked.
As of now, the Central government has not released any advisory to states concerning the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to be followed. The state government will act on the Centre's guidance once it is received.
State Public Health Department Secretary Nipun Vinayak mentioned that the Centre reviewed HMPV with states on January 6.
Once the Centre provides SOPs and additional precautionary measures, the state government will subsequently announce them.
"Of the 8,000 samples sent to the Pune NIV lab this year, 172 cases of HMPV were confirmed. Citizens are advised to take precautions against respiratory infections," he added.
Additionally, the Centre has called on states to enhance surveillance regarding respiratory illnesses across the country.
