Hyderabad: Health Minister C Damodar Raja Narsimha assured citizens on Monday that there is no need to panic as the government is fully prepared to handle any situation. He stated that senior health department and district officials have been alerted to strengthen the disease surveillance system. The government is also ensuring that all necessary resources are ready.
The Minister addressed concerns about misinformation being spread on social media. He emphasized that the government would take strict action against any false information designed to create panic. Speaking about the Human MetapneumoVirus (HMPV), he clarified that it is not a new virus, as it was first identified in 2001 and has been spreading worldwide since then.
HMPV primarily affects the respiratory system and spreads through droplets expelled by infected individuals when they cough or sneeze. This year, a significant rise in HMPV cases has been reported in China. “We are closely monitoring the situation in other countries and Indian states,” said Raja Narsimha. He added that the State Health Department is in regular coordination with Central health officials and that sufficient medical facilities are available within the state to handle any potential rise in cases.
