Mizoram forms core panel on HMPV

Aizawl: In response to the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China and detection of two cases in India, Mizoram govt has established a core committee on HMPV led by state health minister Lalrinpuii. Additionally, Rapid Response Teams have been formed at both state and district levels, health department officials said on Tuesday.The decision was made at the meeting of state health & family welfare department chaired by Lalrinpuii on Monday evening even as the state health department through the Integrated Diseases Surveillance Programme (IDSP) has been closely monitoring the disease and no upsurge in Influenza like illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases have been detected so far, the officials said. Officials said the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and its associated laboratories have not observed any increase in adenovirus, HMPV, RSV, or related illnesses in recent months."The Mizoram govt is well prepared with any eventuality and a testing facility is now in place at the lone Zoram Medical College near Aizawl," they said.The state's health system and surveillance network remain vigilant and prepared to address any potential outbreak.Health officials said HMPV, while present globally including India, is a respiratory illness similar to the common cold and is not considered highly dangerous, therefore requiring no cause for alarm. Officials urged residents to support the ongoing Social Awareness and Actions to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully campaign through their full cooperation.