Pune: Sassoon Hospital Reports 17 HMPV Cases; Authorities Assure Readiness, Urge Calm
Pune: Sassoon Hospital Reports 17 HMPV Cases; Authorities Assure Readiness, Urge Calm
PUNE: Sassoon General Hospital has confirmed 17 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as of December 2024, according to Dr. Nagnath Yempalle, Pune district’s civil surgeon. Most cases were pediatric, highlighting the familiarity of healthcare professionals with managing this virus.
Dr. Yallappa Jadhav, medical superintendent of Sassoon Hospital, stated, “We managed 17 cases, predominantly pediatric, and are well-prepared for any potential emergencies.”
Isolation Wards to Strengthen Preparedness
The announcement came during a high-level meeting convened by Pune district collector Jitendra Dudi, involving stakeholders from government hospitals, medical colleges, and civil health facilities, including those in Baramati.
Dr. Yempalle revealed that isolation wards will be established in government hospitals to track and monitor HMPV cases. “As instructed by the collector, isolation facilities are being set up, and all stakeholders will work together to manage the situation effectively,” he said.
Addressing Diagnostic Challenges
HMPV testing, which costs around ₹17,000, has raised concerns about affordability. To alleviate this, authorities plan to request the National Institute of Virology (NIV) to handle testing. “NIV has always stepped forward in emergencies. We will seek their assistance to reduce the testing burden and improve case monitoring,” Dr. Yempalle added.
Public Reassured of Safety Measures
District collector Jitendra Dudi urged citizens to remain calm, emphasizing that preparedness measures are in place. “We have implemented plans to track and manage cases. Senior doctors are training medical staff to ensure early detection and intervention. HMPV is not new, and our healthcare system is equipped to handle it. An outbreak of pandemic proportions is highly unlikely,” he assured.
National HMPV Cases on the Rise
Across India, 11 HMPV cases have been reported recently: two each in Bengaluru and Chennai, one in Gujarat, three in Kolkata, two in Nagpur, and one in Mumbai.
Authorities stress the importance of vigilance while assuring the public of Pune’s readiness to handle the situation. HMPV is being closely monitored, with proactive steps taken to ensure public safety.
