Delhi Gears Up Against HMPV Threat: Health Minister Orders Emergency Preparedness

Hospitals instructed to ensure readiness as Delhi monitors respiratory virus cases after HMPV detection in Karnataka.

New Delhi, January 6: In response to the detection of two human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Karnataka, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has directed the Health and Family Welfare Department to ensure immediate preparedness across all government hospitals in Delhi.

The minister emphasized that hospitals must be fully equipped to handle any potential rise in respiratory illness cases, following the Union Health Ministry’s guidelines.

“The Health and FW Department must maintain constant communication with the Union Health Ministry for updates. If directives are needed, they should not be delayed and can be escalated to me directly,” Bharadwaj stated.

Inspection and Preparedness Measures

The minister has instructed the Delhi Health Secretary to inspect three hospitals daily and provide comprehensive reports covering:

• Essential Drug List (EDL) availability
• Stock of medicines and ICU bed capacity
• Condition of medical equipment
• Functionality of PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) plants

These measures aim to ensure that Delhi’s healthcare system remains robust and responsive in case of an increase in respiratory infections.

Details About HMPV Cases

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka during routine surveillance of respiratory viral pathogens.

• The first case was a three-month-old female infant diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted with bronchopneumonia at Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru. She has since been discharged after treatment.
• The second case involved an eight-month-old infant, also admitted with bronchopneumonia. He remains stable and is recovering.

Neither infant had international travel history, indicating local transmission.

No Surge in Cases Yet

The Health Ministry and ICMR clarified that while these cases warrant vigilance, there has been no significant spike in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) across the country.

What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus known to cause illnesses similar to the flu. It is globally present, including in India, and primarily affects the respiratory system, especially in young children and the elderly.

Delhi’s Vigilance Against HMPV

The Delhi government’s proactive measures aim to contain any potential outbreak and ensure that medical facilities are fully equipped to address emerging cases. Public awareness campaigns may also follow to inform citizens about preventive measures and symptom recognition.

Key Takeaway

With increased monitoring, daily inspections, and strategic coordination with central health authorities, Delhi is strengthening its healthcare infrastructure to preempt any rise in HMPV cases. The authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant, follow hygiene protocols, and seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms arise.