Chairing a meeting of health officials here on HPMV concerns, Shandil said HPMV is not a virus of concern and should be treated like a regular virus.
In a statement here, he said that the Union Health Ministry is continuously monitoring the spread or severity of HPMV.
Shandil said no unusual spikes have been recorded nationwide in cases related to influenza and other serious respiratory illnesses. Even in Himachal Pradesh, no unusual spike has been recorded so far, the minister said.
He said cough, fever and cold are common symptoms of HPMV and it is spread through close contact with infected people. While asking people to remain cautious, he asked them to visit nearby health centers in case they develop similar symptoms.
The minister also asked people to take precautionary measures like wearing masks, washing their hands with soap at regular intervals and resting at home in case of illness. The Health Ministry is fully equipped to deal with any emergency in case an increase in HPMV is recorded in the near future, the minister said, adding that sufficient infrastructure, beds, oxygen cylinders and Other necessary facilities are available in all medical establishments to deal with any health emergency.
Shandil said the state government would closely follow the protocol and instructions issued by the Government of India regarding HPMV.
