Minister Arti Singh Rao : Haryana Health Department Fully Prepared and Alert
Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao, reassured the public that there have been no reported cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in the state. However, she emphasized that the health department is fully alert and prepared for any eventualities. The Minister has directed all civil surgeons to make necessary arrangements for the treatment of influenza, HMPV, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and other respiratory diseases.
In a statement issued here today, the Health Minister shared that, under her instructions, an advisory has been issued by the Director General Health Services to civil surgeons. The advisory urges them to remain vigilant in their respective areas concerning these diseases, including HMPV, and ensure preparedness. All health centers are to establish designated flu corners. Additionally, District Health Officers are tasked with ensuring these centers are stocked with adequate medicines, equipment, oxygen, and ventilators, with trained staff assigned on continuous rotation.
Ms. Arti Singh Rao further informed that the in-charges of flu corners have been instructed to ensure the availability of medications such as Oseltamivir (75mg, 45mg, 30mg) and syrup, along with necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), N-95 masks, reagent kits, and viral transport media (VTM). Furthermore, the District Health Officer is to ensure that dedicated beds are available for seasonal influenza and other respiratory diseases at these specialized centers. She also emphasized the importance of frequent handwashing by healthcare workers and urged anyone exhibiting symptoms like cough or cold to wear masks.
The Health Minister urged each District Surveillance Unit to monitor trends of influenza-like symptoms and severe respiratory issues within their jurisdiction. In the case of severe symptoms, they are instructed to test samples as necessary. To increase awareness, the Minister has directed a ramp-up of public education initiatives, focusing on respiratory hygiene and hand hygiene, particularly during the winter season.
Special attention has been given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and pregnant women. Ms. Arti Singh Rao has also instructed the civil surgeons to hold regular consultations with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and report updates daily to the department.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Dr. Manish Bansal, Director General Health Services, explained that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that can lead to respiratory infections in individuals of all ages. Symptoms typically include cough, fever, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and bronchitis, with severe cases potentially leading to pneumonia.
HMPV spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, close personal contact (e.g., touching or shaking hands), or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
Dr. Bansal reassured the public that most cases of HMPV resolve on their own within 2-5 days. He recommended supportive care, including staying hydrated, resting, and taking medication to alleviate pain and respiratory symptoms. At present, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.
To prevent infection, Dr. Bansal advised the public to frequently wash their hands with soap and water, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, maintain distance from sick individuals, cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and stay home if feeling unwell.
Dr. Bansal emphasized that influenza, HMPV, and RSV are common causes of respiratory infections, particularly during the winter months