Guwahati, Jan 10: Assam is fully equipped to handle any potential outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, Health Minister Ashok Singhal assured on Friday during a review meeting in Dibrugarh.
While HMPV has been known since 2021, Singhal clarified that no immediate advisory is being issued.
“We remain on alert and ready to follow the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) guidelines should cases rise nationally. However, there is currently no cause for alarm,” he stated.
Singhal emphasized that Assam’s healthcare system, bolstered by its experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, is well-prepared for emergencies: “Our doctors, nurses, and paramedics demonstrated extraordinary dedication during the pandemic. With that foundation, we are confident in our ability to manage any health crisis,” Singhal said.
In comprehensive review meetings held across Upper Assam districts, Singhal highlighted the need for urgent improvements in maternal and neonatal mortality rates (MMR and IMR), which remain higher in these regions than other parts of the state.
On Friday, he conducted a similar review for Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Charaideo and Sibsagar districts at the Dibrugarh District Commissioner’s office.
The meetings focused on improving maternal and neonatal mortality rates, the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram and screening for non-communicable diseases among people over 30.
Singhal emphasized the need to enhance healthcare infrastructure, ensure routine vaccinations in line with registration data and conduct awareness campaigns on healthy lifestyles. He directed officials to ensure 100% routine vaccination for mothers and newborns and stressed the importance of monitoring the Wage Compensation Scheme for pregnant women in tea estates, particularly addressing the exclusion of beneficiaries in Tinsukia.
Expressing concern over a shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, the minister instructed the National Health Mission (NHM) to expedite recruitment efforts.
“We must address these gaps immediately to ensure healthcare accessibility and service efficiency,” Singhal directed.
Singhal stressed the importance of leveraging ASHA workers to enhance hygiene awareness and promote preventive healthcare measures. He directed health officials to strengthen the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram by conducting comprehensive school health check-ups across 30-32 key indicators.
Additionally, he emphasized accelerating registration for Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) and encouraging doctors to prescribe physical activities like yoga and walking for preventive care.
The review meetings, attended by district commissioners, MLAs, health officials, and NHM representatives, underscored the government’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare services. Singhal commended ongoing efforts and urged continued diligence to ensure accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare for all citizens.
“We are dedicated to strengthening Assam’s healthcare systems and improving the well-being of our people,” Singhal added.
