China's Respiratory Illnesses: India Takes Precautions Amid Global Situation

New Delhi: A Joint Monitoring Group meeting was held on Saturday under the Chairmanship of the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, as reports of rising cases of respiratory illnesses in China have raised concerns globally.

Experts from various organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Disaster Management Cell, Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, National Centre for Disease Control, Indian Council of Medical Research, Emergency Medical Relief Division, and hospitals like AIIMS, Delhi, participated in the meeting.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Health, experts at the meeting concluded that although there is an ongoing flu season, reports about China's situation indicate that the cause of the surge is not unusually caused. The main culprits mentioned were the Influenza virus, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus).

"It's essential to note that these viruses are already in circulation globally, including India," said the statement.

The government is keeping a close eye on the situation and has requested WHO to provide timely updates regarding China. The country already has a robust surveillance system for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) Influenza in place, which shows no unusual surge in cases.

Hospitals have also reported that there's been no increase in respiratory illness cases recently, aside from the expected seasonal variation. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also tests for other respiratory viruses such as Adenovirus and RSV, which do not show unusual increases in tested samples.

As a precautionary measure, ICMR plans to enhance laboratory testing for HMPV and will monitor trends throughout the year. Data from recent preparedness drills across the country confirm that India is well-prepared to handle any surge in respiratory illnesses, with its health systems and surveillance networks remaining vigilant.

"We are ready to respond promptly to emerging health challenges," added the statement.