Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil chaired a meeting of health officials on the health concerns related to Human Metapneumovirus (HPMV) here today. He stated that it was a common virus and there was no need to panic. It was not a new virus as its prevalence in India and other countries had been registered since the year 2001.
The Health Minister said that the HPMV wasn't a virus of concern and it must be treated as a common and regular viral. "The union Health Ministry and states Health Department was continuously keeping an eye over the spread or severity of the HPMV.
No uncommon spike had been registered anywhere across the country in the cases related to influenza disease and other serious breathing related diseases. Even in Himachal Pradesh, no uncommon spike has been registered so far," stated the minister.
Dr. Shandil said that cough, fever and cold were the common symptoms of the HPMV 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, wash hands with soap at regular intervals and rest at home in case they feel sick. The Health Minister added that the Health Department was fully equipped to deal with any emergency in case a rise in the HPMV was 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 said. Dr. Shandil added that the state government would closely follow the protocol and directions issued by the government of India with regard to the HPMV.