India alert, Health Ministry took steps

Lung infection is spreading rapidly in China, which has increased concern not only in China but also in neighboring countries. India has appealed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to increase vigilance in this matter and provide regular updates. Along with this, the Health Ministry organized an important meeting on this issue, in which experts and various departments discussed strategies to deal with the infection.

India’s preparation: Health Ministry meeting

In the meeting of the Health Ministry, the situation in the neighboring country China and the preparations to deal with it in India were discussed.

• Departments involved in the meeting:
  • WHO experts
  • Disaster Management Cell
  • disease control cell
  • Other major health departments.

Experts said that increase in lung infections is normal during winter season. The Health Ministry said that such problems are common in this season across the world including India.

Demand for accurate information from WHO

India has appealed to WHO to share accurate and timely information on the spread of the infection and its impact in China. The government is monitoring the situation through all its channels.

China situation: viral video and HMPV infection

Recently, many videos of Chinese hospitals have gone viral on social media, showing the increasing number of patients and pressure on health services.

• HMPV Infection:
  Human meta-pneumonia virus (HMPV) is being held responsible for the increasing infection in China.
  • Experts’ Opinion:
    • It is a common infection, which mainly affects the lungs.
    • Flu-like symptoms can be seen in the elderly and children.
    • Director General of Health Services, Dr Atul Goyal, said:
      “HMPV is not worrisome and there is no need to panic.”

Reaction of Indian states

Kerala Government:

Kerala Health Minister Veena George said:
“News of the spread of infection in China is being closely monitored. “There is no indication yet that it could take the form of an epidemic.”

• Referring to Malayali migrants, he advised extra caution.
• Emphasis was laid on monitoring passengers returning from China and other countries.

Telangana Government:

The Telangana government has also shown caution regarding the rising cases of respiratory infection and viral fever in China. The state said there is no need to panic right now, but the situation is being monitored.