HMPV: “Maintain Careful Tracking” - Delhi Government To Hospitals

The Delhi government has issued an urgent directive to healthcare facilities following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Karnataka. Highlighting the importance of vigilance, Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj emphasised the need for hospitals in the National Capital Territory (NCT) to be prepared for a potential rise in respiratory illnesses.

The directive, addressed to the Health and Family Welfare (FW) Department, urges close monitoring of HMPV trends across the country. It also stresses maintaining contact with the Union Health Ministry for timely updates on preparedness measures. Hospitals have been instructed to ensure readiness, including the availability of essential medicines, ICU beds, and functioning medical equipment.

Also Read: HMPV: Everything You Need To Know About The Respiratory Virus On Rise

Minister Bharadwaj directed the Secretary (Health) to personally inspect three major government hospitals daily and submit detailed reports on various aspects, including medicine stocks, radiological equipment, PSA plant operations, and adherence to standard operating procedures for acute respiratory illnesses.

The advisory comes in light of a Union Health Ministry update confirming that HMPV is already in global circulation, including India. Cases of respiratory illnesses linked to the virus have been reported worldwide. The two cases detected in Karnataka involved infants with a history of bronchopneumonia, both of whom are now recovering. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) identified these cases through routine surveillance and assured that there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) across the country.

Also Read: Surveillance System Robust, No Unusual Surge: Centre On HMPV Cases

While the current data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) shows no immediate cause for alarm, the Delhi government remains proactive. Hospitals have been advised to prepare for any eventualities, ensuring that public health interventions can be swiftly deployed if necessary.