Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College is set to start testing for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) from Thursday, becoming the first government facility in the state to offer this service. The tests will be conducted in the microbiology department under an Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) project. Samples from patients with HMPV symptoms across the region will be tested here and reports will be provided within 24 hours.
Currently, HMPV test facilities are available only in private labs and hospitals. The same machine is used for HMPV tests as for COVID-19 testing, but it requires a special kit certified for HMPV. MGM Medical College will get the kits on Thursday. Meanwhile, district collector Asheesh Singh has directed the health department officials to help the medical college get the samples of SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infections) and ILI (Influenza Like Illness) from health centres across the district.
According to pediatrician Dr Tarun Gupta, HMPV mainly affects infants with weak immunity. It usually causes mild symptoms like a runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat and difficulty in breathing. However, in some cases, it can lead to serious illnesses like pneumonia or asthma. Dr Gupta advised parents to watch out for symptoms and seek medical advice if needed.
Health dept to provide samples from eight centres
Chief medical and health officer Dr BS Saitya said, “We have directed the teams of Mangilal Churiya Hospital, PC Sethi Hospital, Malharganj Polyclinic, District Hospital, Hukumchand Polyclinic and Banganga Hospital to send samples for testing. Samples will also be provided from Manpur and Mhow.”
“This initiative will also help study whether the virus is spreading in the region. ICMR certified labs would handle testing and ensure accurate results.” Dr Sadhna Sodani, HoD, microbiology department
