While the state government has assured that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a seasonal virus akin to RSV and flu, Dr. Dilip Bhanushali, National President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), emphasizes the need for vigilance without creating undue panic. Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Dr. Bhanushali highlighted the importance of surveillance, precautionary measures, and preparedness in handling respiratory viruses like HMPV.

Here Are The Excerpts From The Interview

Q: Do you think we have learned any lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic?

Dr. Dilip Bhanushali: Absolutely, we have learned a lot. The pandemic was a disaster in terms of infrastructure—beds, oxygen, and basic supplies like masks. Initially, we had to import masks, but within six months, India became a major exporter, sending masks to 160 countries. Similarly, we are now better prepared with oxygen supplies. The key takeaway is the importance of preparedness and hygiene-cough and hand.

Q: Is India’s public health infrastructure prepared to handle respiratory infectious diseases?

Dr. Bhanushali: Compared to the past, there has been significant improvement. Government hospitals now have ventilators, and private hospitals have invested in infrastructure like HEPA filters. However, there is still room for improvement, especially in terms of preparedness for new seasonal viruses.

Q: What should be the roadmap for handling new viruses?

Dr. Bhanushali: Prevention is key. Strong surveillance systems are essential. Currently, India’s health budget is only 1.5% of GDP, which is insufficient. We need to increase this to at least 4-5% to match global standards.

Q: What about research and surveillance? Are we doing enough?

Dr. Bhanushali: Research has gained momentum, especially after COVID-19, with significant investments in both private and public sectors. However, there is still a need for better surveillance systems. Testing for new strains is costly and not widely accessible. Government hospitals are monitoring cases, but we need more robust protocols.

Q: Should certain diseases be made notifiable to improve monitoring?

Dr. Bhanushali: Notifiable diseases like tuberculosis require mandatory reporting, but not all infections need this status. For viruses like the current one, the disease risk is low, and making it notifiable may create unnecessary panic.

Q: What precautions should the public take?

Dr. Bhanushali: The public should focus on basic precautions—wear masks, avoid crowded places, and wash hands frequently. This virus spreads through droplets, so simple measures can prevent its spread. Hygiene is critical because people have seen the consequences of neglect during COVID-19. It took us years to instill the habit of wearing masks and taking precautions. Prevention remains the best approach since specific medications are often unavailable for new viruses.

Q: What is the IMA doing to raise awareness?

Dr. Bhanushali: The IMA is actively communicating with the public, emphasizing that there is no need to panic. We are focusing on educating people about the importance of precautions and informing them that the government is prepared.

Q: Do you think reporting the number of cases creates unnecessary panic for a virus like HMPV which has been in circulation for a while?

Dr. Bhanushali: Yes, focusing on numbers can create psychological distress. In a population of 140 crores, a few cases are inevitable. These numbers don’t reflect the actual situation and can lead to unnecessary fear. Instead, we should focus on preparedness and precautionary measures.

Q: Any final message for the public?

Dr. Bhanushali: My message is simple: don’t panic. Take precautions, maintain hygiene, and trust that the healthcare system is better prepared than ever before. Together, we can handle any challenges that come our way