Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Odisha Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) Department organized a review conference on Wednesday to examine readiness for any probable instances of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the state. The meeting, which was presided over by Commissioner-turned-Secretary Ashwati S, came to the conclusion that the public does not now need to be concerned.
No HMPV cases have been documented in Odisha thus far, according to officials. Nonetheless, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the federal and state governments continue to exercise caution. Important organizations including the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Public Health Directorate of Odisha, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, RMRC Bhubaneswar, ILS Bhubaneswar, and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) have joined forces to form a strong surveillance network.
In order to stop the spread of any possible diseases, the H&FW Department stressed the need of personal cleanliness and public awareness. “There is no need for alarm. “Being aware and taking precautions will keep us safe,” the agency said, advising residents to practice good hygiene and cleanliness. Several top health officials attended the conference, including WHO Team Lead Dr. Nihar Ray, DMET Dr. Santosh Kumar Mishra, Director of Public Health Dr. Nilakantha Misra, Director of Health Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, and members from important Odisha health organizations.
The department reassured the public that it is fully prepared to handle any situation and appealed for cooperation in maintaining a calm and informed response to the issue.
