It is time for the J&K Government to once again start taking precautions and get ready to face unprecedented medical urgency like the case of COVID-19, as the cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have started rising in the country though presently the situation is not alarming as things are well under control.
In this context, reportedly the central government has also advised States and UTs to step up surveillance for respiratory illnesses, including ILI and SARI, and spread awareness about the prevention of transmission of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) after five cases were detected across the country.
It is unfortunate that despite severe setbacks during the second and the third waves of COVID-19, the government has again switched into the denial mode claiming that the HMPV is not a new virus and there is no need to worry. Of course, panic is not the solution to any problem but looking at the outcome of COVID-19 pandemic, it is not at all advisable to take the arrival of any such disease in the country as lightly because one never knows which side will the donkey sit on?
It is good that the government in J&K has announced that it is ready to deal with the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and has directed all the hospitals across the UT to keep isolation beds ready. This approach is the need of the hour because at present no one knows how this ailment is going to spread in the coming time and the repercussions of this contagion as anything could happen, if the contagious virus starts spreading like wildfire as in case of the COVID-19.
While the rise in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases is currently manageable, the J&K Government should take timely and proactive measures to ensure preparedness for any potential escalation. Vigilance, early interventions, and public awareness will be crucial in mitigating future risks and safeguarding public health, thus making it necessary for the government to be ready for any kind of exigency and future escalation of this viral infection which might prove risky for the aged population and people having certain medical conditions.
