India effectively handles HMPV with preventive measures

Source: The post India effectively handles HMPV with preventive measures has been created, based on the article “HMPV virus – its not the pandemic” published in “Indian Express” on 21st January 2025

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article explains that HMPV is a common respiratory virus causing mild symptoms. It is not a cause for alarm in India. The health system can handle it, but precautions, improved surveillance, pandemic preparedness, and addressing air pollution are crucial.

For detailed information on India’s Response to the HMPV Virus read this article here

What is HMPV and how does it spread?

1. HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a respiratory virus from the Pneumoviridae family, first detected in 2001.
2. However, it has circulated in humans for decades. It spreads through: Droplets from infected people, Contact with infected surfaces, Handshakes or close interactions
3. The incubation period is 3–6 days. Symptoms include nasal congestion, cough, fever, and sore throat. Severe symptoms may affect infants, the elderly, and people with weak immunity.

Is HMPV a major concern in India?

1. HMPV is not a major concern in India as it causes mild illness in most cases.
2. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) found HMPV caused only 3% of Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases.
3. Most respiratory illnesses in India are due to SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A and B, and RSV.
4. No evidence suggests HMPV has mutated into a more dangerous form.
5. India’s health system is equipped to handle HMPV cases effectively, including tracking trends through surveillance.

For detailed information on India’s Concern Over Human Metapneumovirus Outbreak read this article here

How can HMPV be prevented and managed?

1. Prevention measures:

• Wear masks during flu season to reduce respiratory illnesses.
• Wash hands frequently and avoid touching the face.
• Avoid crowded places, especially for infants, the elderly, and vulnerable groups.

2. Management methods:

• Stay hydrated, take warm fluids, and rest.
• Use paracetamol for high fever.
• Seek medical help for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent fever.

What should India prioritize for the future?

1. Strengthen Pandemic Preparedness: Implement Niti Aayog’s 2024 framework report on emergency response and preparedness.
2. Increase R&D Investments: Develop vaccines and countermeasures for high-priority pathogens identified by WHO.
3. Enhance Surveillance Systems: Use ICMR and NCDC’s lab-based networks to monitor virus trends effectively.
4. Address Air Pollution: Tackle air pollution, a major driver of respiratory illnesses like ILI and SARI, through a multi-sectoral approach.

Question for practice:

Examine how India can effectively prevent and manage HMPV while prioritizing future preparedness measures.