SPECIAL STORY
Council of Medical Research ( ICMR ) for multiple respiratory viral pathogens , as part of ICMR ’ s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country . Meanwhile the Union Health Ministry is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels . ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year . The WHO is already providing timely updates regarding the situation in China to further inform ongoing measures .
Should We Still Be Concerned ?
The decline in HMPV cases in India suggests a temporary ebb in infections , but public health experts caution that the virus may follow a seasonal or cyclical pattern , much like RSV and influenza . HMPV cases could see periodic spikes , especially during colder months or post-monsoon seasons when respiratory infections typically rise . Increased awareness and diagnostic advancements may lead to better detection of HMPV , helping health authorities track future trends more effectively . As more people are exposed to the virus , natural immunity could contribute to lower severity in future outbreaks , though reinfections remain possible .
The continued emphasis on hygiene , masking during outbreaks , and vaccination efforts for other respiratory illnesses may help limit
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BioVoiceNews | February 2025