The health department in Ghaziabad has stepped up its preparedness to tackle seasonal influenza and potential cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). All hospitals and medical colleges in the district have been directed to reserve 10 beds specifically for patients with severe influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). Both government and private healthcare facilities have been instructed to report these cases on the Unified Diseases Surveillance Portal (UDSP) to ensure real-time monitoring and effective response.
Healthcare providers have been advised to maintain adequate supplies of medicines, medical oxygen, and necessary equipment. In addition, staff training programs are being implemented to manage respiratory infections more effectively. District Surveillance Officer Dr. Rakesh Gupta confirmed that all reserved beds will be equipped with medical oxygen and ventilators to handle severe cases. Private hospitals have received similar directives, including reserving beds for communicable diseases and ensuring all cases and laboratory results are promptly uploaded to the UDSP.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare emphasized during a January 7 meeting with state and Union Territory representatives that HMPV, first identified in 2001, is a globally known virus with no immediate cause for alarm. While HMPV infections are usually mild and self-limiting, the ministry has called for enhanced ILI/SARI surveillance across healthcare facilities. Public health officials have assured citizens that the situation is under control and that preventive measures are in place to mitigate any health risks.
