Jhajjar (Haryana) [India], January 15 (HBTV): Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao assured residents that the state is fully prepared to handle concerns surrounding Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and urged the public not to panic.

‘We are ready. All the districts have been informed to stay alert. I want to request that the people should not panic. This virus can spread, but it is not dangerous. It can be treated,’ Rao said while speaking to ANI.

She also emphasized the importance of maintaining health during winter and recommended timely medical tests.

‘Since it is winter now, there are chances of more people getting pneumonia, so I request everyone to get a mucus test done if they experience any symptoms. They should also keep their hands clean, just like during Covid-19,’ she added.

The first recorded case of HMPV in Assam was reported on January 12, involving a 10-month-old child who had respiratory symptoms. The diagnosis was confirmed by Superintendent Dhruv Jyoti Bhuiyan of Assam Medical College and Hospital.

‘This morning, we received the report of the child who had cough and symptoms and tested positive for the HMPV virus. The test was part of the routine, and the child is perfectly alright,’ Bhuiyan stated.

HMPV, first identified in 2001, is a seasonal respiratory virus that generally causes mild symptoms but can pose a higher risk to vulnerable populations.

On January 9, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported an increase in acute respiratory infections in the Northern Hemisphere, including HMPV, which follows typical seasonal patterns.

The WHO noted that while the co-circulation of multiple respiratory pathogens during the winter season can place an increased burden on healthcare systems, these trends are not unusual and are commonly caused by pathogens like seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV.

The Haryana Health Ministry has urged people to follow hygiene protocols and consult healthcare professionals if symptoms arise.

(ANI)