'Monitor HMPV Virus Closely,' Directs Madhya Pradesh Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla After Five Cases Detected In India

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla on Monday directed officials to closely monitor the new virus - Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is reportedly spreading from China.

He emphasised the need for constant monitoring and adherence to the directives issued by the central government to control potential infections.

The first case of HMPV in India was reported in Bengaluru, where an eight-month-old baby was diagnosed with the virus. This development has sparked significant health concerns amid reports of an HMPV outbreak in China.

Till now, a total of five cases have been reported in the country, out of which two emerged from Karnataka’s Bengaluru, one from Gujarat’s Ahmedabad and two others from Tamil Nadu’s Chennai and Salem.

Netizens speculate another lockdown in country

The emergence of this new virus has alarmed citizens, with netizens speculating about the possibility of another lockdown in the country.

Social media has been with memes on the virus. While some are sarcastic, others advice not to create a panic among people.

Check the reactions here:

No Need To Panic: Union Health Minister

However, the Union Health Ministry has assured citizens this is no danger to the country. Addressing the issue, Health Minister JP Nadda said, “As per health experts, HMPV is not a new virus to India. It was first detected in 2001 and has been circulating across the globe since then. The government is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure public safety. ”

Published on: Monday, January 06, 2025, 10:26 PM IST