Health depart prepared to deal with HMP virus: Shandil

Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil today said there was no cause for panic due to Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as the Health Department was fully prepared to deal with the virus.

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Shandil today chaired a meeting of health officials on the concerns related to the HMPV. “The Health Department is fully equipped to deal with any emergency in case a rise in the HMPV is registered in near future. Sufficient infrastructure, beds, oxygen cylinders and other necessary facilities are available at all medical institutions to deal with any health emergency,” he assured.

“It is a common virus and not a new one as its prevalence in India and other countries had been registered since the year 2001,” he stated. He said that the HMPV wasn't a virus of concern and it must be treated as a common and regular viral.

“The Union Health Ministry and the State Health Department were continuously keeping an eye over the spread or severity of the HMPV. No uncommon spike had been registered anywhere across the country in the cases related to influenza and other serious breathing related diseases. Even in Himachal Pradesh, no uncommon spike has been registered,” he stated.

Shandil said that cough, fever and cold were the common symptoms of the HMPV and it spreads by coming in close contact with infected people. While asking the people to remain cautious, he asked them to visit nearby health centre in case they develop similar symptoms. He also asked the people to take precautionary measures like wearing mask, washing hands with soap at regular intervals and taking rest at home in case they feel sick.

He added that the state government would closely follow the protocol and directions issued by the Government of India with regard to the HMPV.