India Monitors H9N2 Outbreak in China, Ensures Preparedness for Public Health Challenges

The Union Health Ministry of India is closely monitoring the reported outbreak of H9N2 cases and respiratory illness clusters in children in northern China. In response to media reports and WHO statements, India assesses a low risk from both the avian influenza cases in China and the clusters of respiratory illness. The Ministry emphasized that the increase in respiratory diseases in China is attributed to usual causes, with no identification of unusual pathogens or unexpected clinical manifestations.

A recent meeting under the DGHS discussed preparedness measures against human cases of avian influenza, acknowledging the need to strengthen surveillance in human, animal husbandry, and wildlife sectors. India reassures its preparedness for public health exigencies, adopting a One Health approach and enhancing health infrastructure through initiatives like the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) continues to contribute to effective surveillance and detection networks in challenging health situations.