The Union Health Ministry convened a high-level Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) meeting in New Delhi on Saturday in response to a sharp rise in respiratory illness cases reported in China over the past few weeks. The meeting, chaired by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), saw participation from experts representing the World Health Organization (WHO), the Disaster Management Cell, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and renowned institutions such as AIIMS, Delhi.
The gathering focused on analyzing the situation in China, where the surge in cases is reportedly linked to seasonal flu pathogens, including Influenza viruses, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). These pathogens are typically associated with the flu season and do not pose any extraordinary or novel threat. Nonetheless, the Indian government has urged WHO to provide regular updates while ramping up its surveillance efforts domestically to ensure preparedness.
Health officials in India reassured the public that no unusual increase in respiratory illness cases has been observed in the country. Surveillance systems maintained by the ICMR and IDSP confirm that both Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases remain within expected seasonal patterns. Additionally, routine diagnostic tests for respiratory viruses, including RSV, HMPV, and Adenovirus, have not revealed any concerning trends, according to major hospitals.
To bolster preparedness, the ICMR has announced plans to expand its network of laboratories testing for HMPV and to intensify year-round monitoring of respiratory viruses. Recent nationwide drills assessing the country’s healthcare readiness demonstrated that India is well-equipped to manage any potential spikes in respiratory illnesses.
The Health Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to public health, maintaining heightened vigilance through robust surveillance systems and emergency response networks. Officials have called on the public to remain calm but proactive by adopting simple preventive measures, such as maintaining hygiene, wearing masks in crowded spaces, and seeking timely medical attention for persistent respiratory symptoms.
India’s approach reflects its readiness to address global health challenges with swift and decisive action, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens while closely monitoring the evolving situation in China.