The Delhi health officials sent a warning on January 5, 2024, to get ready for any health issues that may arise from the Human MetaPneumoVirus (HMPV) and other respiratory viruses. This advice was issued in response to recent reports of an increase in respiratory cases in China and growing concerns about respiratory disorders. In order to address the spread of respiratory infections, Delhi’s Director General of Health Services, Dr. Vandana Bagga, called an urgent meeting with the state programme officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the chief district medical officers.
The advisory’s main goals were to improve surveillance and guarantee prompt case reporting. Hospitals were directed to use the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) Portal to rapidly report instances of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-like Illness (ILI). Reporting these occurrences promptly enables health officials to take the necessary measures, as they are frequently early symptoms of an outbreak. Hospitals were also obliged to keep detailed records of SARI patients and laboratory-confirmed influenza illnesses in order to guarantee improved management. This would make it possible to track the situation precisely and respond quickly to any possible breakouts.
Strict isolation procedures were required for suspected cases of respiratory infections as part of the treatment protocols. Additionally, the adoption of universal precautions, like wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), was required to stop the virus from spreading. This guarantees that patients and healthcare personnel are shielded from potential exposure to infectious respiratory germs.
In order to treat moderate cases of respiratory infections, hospitals were also advised to keep vital medications on hand, such as cough syrups, bronchodilators, antihistamines, and paracetamol. The availability of oxygen therapy was highlighted in more severe cases because it is essential for treating problems that may occur in individuals experiencing respiratory distress.
Given that the HMPV is known to impact the respiratory system and that there have been reports of an increase in respiratory diseases in China, the advise is a preventative step. However, according to data available as of January 2, 2025, the Union Health Ministry and international health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) have declared that there hasn’t been a notable increase in respiratory illnesses in India. As a result, even if the situation is being closely watched, India has not yet reached a concerning point.
The advise ensures that Delhi is ready to react quickly to any respiratory health issues and demonstrates the authorities’ proactive attitude to addressing potential health hazards, particularly in light of the worldwide situation.
SOURCE :
THE HINDU
