Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) Department convened a review meeting on Wednesday to assess preparedness for any potential cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the state. The meeting, chaired by Commissioner-cum-Secretary Ashwati S, concluded that there is currently no need for public concern.
Officials confirmed that no HMPV cases have been reported in Odisha so far. However, both the state and central governments, along with the World Health Organisation (WHO), remain vigilant. A robust surveillance network has been established, involving key institutions such as the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Public Health Directorate of Odisha, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, RMRC Bhubaneswar, and ILS Bhubaneswar.
The H&FW Department emphasized the importance of public awareness and personal hygiene as the primary measures to prevent the spread of any potential infections. “There is no reason for panic. Awareness and precaution will keep us safe,” the department stated, urging citizens to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
The meeting was attended by several senior health officials, including Director of Health Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Director of Public Health Dr. Nilakantha Misra, DMET Dr. Santosh Kumar Mishra, WHO Team Lead Dr. Nihar Ray, and representatives from key health organizations in Odisha.
The department reassured the public that it is fully prepared to handle any situation and appealed for cooperation in maintaining a calm and informed response to the issue.
