India reassures public on HMPV outbreak concerns amid reports from China
The Indian Ministry of Health on Friday reassured the public regarding the recent reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, stating that there is no cause for concern. Atul Goel, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), emphasized that after analyzing data from respiratory outbreaks in India, there has been no significant rise in cases for December 2024. He confirmed that no major outbreaks had been reported from hospitals across the country, and the situation remains under control.
Goel explained that respiratory infections tend to increase during the winter months, but hospitals are well-prepared with the necessary supplies and facilities to handle such seasonal upticks. He advised the public to continue following standard precautions, particularly advising individuals with symptoms like coughs and colds to avoid close contact with others to prevent the spread of infections.
Meanwhile, China downplayed concerns about a widespread flu outbreak, clarifying that respiratory disease cases this winter are less severe compared to the previous year. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, assured that the situation is under control and that it is safe for foreigners to travel to China.
India continues to monitor the situation closely while urging the public to remain vigilant but not alarmed.
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