With the number of confirmed HMPV virus cases rising to eight in the country, states are stepping up their control measures. In Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris district, the use of masks has been made mandatory, especially with the influx of tourists. The District Collector cited this as the reason behind the decision. Additionally, stricter surveillance will be implemented at the Kerala-Karnataka border, according to the Collector.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has clarified that there is no need for panic. States have been directed to strengthen awareness and monitoring efforts. In Maharashtra, two children aged 7 and 13 tested positive for the virus. These children had sought treatment on the 3rd of this month and have since recovered and been discharged.
Cases have also been confirmed in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu (two cases each), and one case each in Gujarat and Kolkata. None of the patients are in critical condition, and many have recovered and been discharged from the hospital. Their samples have been sent for genetic sequence testing. Samples from individuals with symptoms seeking treatment, including from Delhi, have also been sent for testing.
In response to the rising number of cases, the Ministry of Health convened a meeting with heads of central government institutions and representatives from various states.
