'HMPV neither new nor unprecedented': JP Nadda addresses concerns, calls for calm

Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed public concerns about the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Monday, emphasizing that the virus is neither new nor unprecedented. He assured citizens that the government is closely monitoring the situation and has implemented measures to safeguard public health.

Also Read: ‘Taking necessary precautions’: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on HMPV cases in Bengaluru

HMPV, first identified in 2001, has been circulating globally for years. It is a respiratory virus that can affect individuals of all ages and is known to spread through airborne transmission, particularly during winter and early spring. Recent fears surrounding the virus have been amplified by discussions on social media and reports of outbreaks in other countries, notably China.

The Health Ministry’s response came after three infants from Karnataka and Gujarat tested positive for the virus. Nadda assured that the Ministry is fully prepared to manage any potential rise in respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV. He highlighted that data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) show no significant increase in respiratory viral pathogens in the country.

While HMPV has drawn attention due to its respiratory effects, the government is focused on maintaining public awareness and calm, emphasizing that the virus has been a known and manageable concern for years.