DGHS Director-General Atul Goel reassured reporters that no cases of the respiratory illness have been reported in India, calling it “a normal respiratory problem that causes the common cold”.
Although the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring seasonal influenza and respiratory cases, reports about an outbreak in China remain unconfirmed. The NCDC has stated that it is in communication with international health agencies to stay informed on the situation.
Also read: HMPV: The mysterious virus gripping China — What You Need to Know
Health concerns over respiratory illnesses tend to rise during winter in India, owing to the cold wave and deteriorating air quality. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities have implemented a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin, following a predicted increase in respiratory illnesses through the winter months.
Also read: HMPV outbreak in China: India monitors respiratory illnesses amid concerns
