NEW DELHI: In response to the evolving public health situation in China, the Union health ministry of India has taken a proactive stance by initiating a comprehensive review of preparedness measures against respiratory illnesses. The health ministry has issued advisories to all states and Union territories, urging them to immediately reassess and reinforce public health and hospital preparedness measures.
The directive encompasses the implementation of the ‘Operational Guidelines for Revised Surveillance Strategy in the context of Covid-19,’ aimed at strengthening the healthcare infrastructure at both state and district levels.

The move comes as a precautionary measure to ensure that the country is well-equipped to handle any potential challenges in the wake of emerging health concerns.

One of the key aspects of the advisory is the close monitoring of trends related to Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) by district and state surveillance teams.

The increase in respiratory illness is reportedly attributed to common causes such as Influenza, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the Health Ministry has reassured the public that the situation is under close scrutiny, and there is currently no need for alarm.