Delhi's health authorities have issued a crucial advisory to prepare for potential health challenges linked to the Human MetaPneumoVirus (HMPV) and other respiratory viruses. The move follows rising concerns over respiratory illnesses, particularly in light of recent reports from China.

Health Readiness in Focus On Sunday, Dr. Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, led a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to discuss the city's readiness to handle any respiratory outbreaks.As part of the advisory, hospitals have been directed to immediately report cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) through the IHIP Portal. Strict isolation protocols for suspected cases have been mandated to reduce the risk of transmission. Additionally, universal precautions are now required for suspected patients. Focus on Treatment and Monitoring Hospitals are also instructed to maintain accurate records of SARI cases and lab-confirmed influenza instances. To ensure effective treatment of mild cases, healthcare facilities must stock essential medications such as paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and cough syrups. Oxygen supplies are also to be made available where necessary. No Immediate Surge Reported Despite the growing global concerns, reports from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate no significant surge in respiratory illnesses in India as of January 2, 2025. Inputs from PTI