9 January 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Precaution is key

(Source – Indian Express, Section – The Editorial Page – Page No. – 10)

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health GS3 – Science & Technology

Context

The article discusses India’s response to the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

Analysis of the news:

 What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

• Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that primarily causes mild to moderate respiratory infections.
• It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, the same group of viruses that includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza.
• HMPV was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating globally for decades.
• Most infections are mild and self-limiting, but HMPV can cause severe illness in vulnerable groups such as:
  • Elderly individuals.
  • Young children (especially under five years).
  • Immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic illnesses.

Government’s Response to HMPV: A Timely Step

• The Centre’s decision to urge state governments to intensify surveillance for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a prudent move.
• HMPV, identified over two decades ago in the Netherlands, resurfaces primarily during the winter months and poses a significant health concern globally.
• In developed nations, it ranks as the second-most prevalent virus among infants.
• However, India’s lack of routine laboratory testing for HMPV has limited public awareness of its impact.
• Despite this, research by ICMR and other agencies highlights its prevalence among flu pathogens. The recent surge in HMPV-related hospitalizations in China has raised alarms, especially as the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.
• By recommending precautionary measures such as mask-wearing, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, the Union Health Ministry has struck a balance between addressing concerns and preventing panic.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

• The government’s focus on protecting vulnerable groups—children under five, senior citizens, and individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses—is a well-considered approach.
• Initial HMPV infections tend to have severe impacts on these populations, especially when the virus progresses to the lower respiratory tract.
• Conditions like asthma, COPD, and bronchitis, which are becoming increasingly common in India, can exacerbate the severity of infections.
• However, most HMPV cases are self-limiting, requiring only symptom management, good nutrition, and adequate hydration for recovery.
• These measures underline the importance of targeted awareness and preparedness for at-risk populations.

Enhancing Disease Surveillance and Preparedness

• India has demonstrated improved mechanisms for monitoring respiratory diseases since the COVID-19 pandemic.
• For instance, the Centre’s swift response to influenza outbreaks in Northeast India during the winter of 2023 showcased its vigilance.
• Current data shows that most HMPV cases have been detected in urban healthcare facilities, highlighting the efficiency of disease surveillance in cities.
• However, aligning with WHO protocols on respiratory infections requires extending these efforts to the district level. Regular data updates, real-time monitoring, and a focus on vulnerable sections are essential.
• Additionally, integrating the private healthcare sector, which handles over 80% of India’s healthcare services, into the surveillance network is critical to ensure comprehensive monitoring and response to respiratory illnesses like HMPV.

By addressing these areas, India can effectively manage HMPV and strengthen its preparedness for future respiratory disease challenges.

Present Scenario- Global and National:

HMPV is one of the leading causes of respiratory infections worldwide, following influenza and RSV. Studies indicate HMPV accounts for 5-10% of respiratory infections in children and vulnerable adults annually. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently reported two HMPV cases in Karnataka involving babies with a history of bronchopneumonia. These are the first cases identified using PCR diagnostic tools after a surge in HMPV cases in China.

PYQ: In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: [2022] 1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform. 2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform. 3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3   Ans: b

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of enhanced disease surveillance and precautionary measures in managing emerging respiratory viruses like Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India. (150 Words /10 marks)

For more such UPSC related Current Affairs, Check Out: 8 January 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis