Odisha Readies for HMPV, Public Health Director Assures Vigilance

By A Staff Reporter

Bhubaneswar, Odisha – Amid rising concerns over the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, Odisha's Public Health Director, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, reassured the public about the state's preparedness. While the Government of India has not yet issued specific guidelines, a press release has been issued to inform the public about the virus, and the Odisha government is actively monitoring the situation.

Dr. Mishra emphasized the importance of heightened surveillance to tackle any potential spread of the virus. "No specific guideline has been issued by the Government of India, but they have issued a press release and we are geared up to tackle any situation," he said.

He clarified that HMPV is a moderately transmissible virus, not highly contagious, which helps mitigate immediate concerns. "Heightened surveillance is the most important thing. This is a moderately transmissible virus, not highly transmissible," Dr. Mishra explained, outlining the precautionary measures being taken.