Odisha Govt Denies HMPV Outbreak In Khurda

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Thursday scotched rumour about outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in Khurda and stated that no confirmed case has been detected in the state so far.

Public Health Director Dr Nilakantha Mishra told reporters that there has been no confirmed case of HMPV in the state so far and all samples sent to the laboratory have tested negative. “There is no cause for alarm,” he said.

Stating that HMPV symptoms are similar to that of common cold and flu, including fever and mild respiratory issues, Dr Mishra urged people to remain calm as there has been no confirmed case of HMPV in the state, and no reports of people being infected by the virus from any regions.

The Health Department is closely monitoring the situation to ensure preparedness and there is no need to fear about any outbreak as the number of affected individuals remains low.

He said people should adhere to basic health precautions, noting that there has been no significant rise in respiratory infections in the region.

It may be noted that HMPV is a moderately transmissible respiratory virus that can pose serious risks to young children, and the elderly. The public is advised to follow basic preventive measures, such as maintaining hygiene, wearing masks, and seeking medical attention for respiratory symptoms.