VICTORIA, Seychelles — Public health authorities in Seychelles have confirmed that no cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been recorded in the country to date, in the wake of reports of an ongoing surge of the virus in China. The assurance was given at a press conference at the Red Roof Building of the Seychelles Hospital by acting Public Health Commissioner and director general for Public Health, Dr Meggy Louange.
Dr Louange was accompanied by principal medical officer for Community Health Service, Dr Josapha Jouanneau. She explained that HMPV typically causes symptoms similar to the common cold, and that infections are more common in winter and early spring in the Northern Hemisphere. “When we look at credible sources, in many countries in the Northern Hemisphere, where winter is currently in progress, there has been a surge,” she said, while emphasising that Seychelles has not detected any cases.
The acting commissioner noted that the public health system is monitoring the situation and stands ready to escalate surveillance and clinical response if the picture changes. She added that HMPV, while generally mild, can cause more serious illness in very young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, and that standard respiratory hygiene measures remain the most effective prevention.
Dr Louange urged the public to remain calm and to rely on official channels for updates, warning against misinformation on social media. “We continue to monitor the situation closely and will inform the public of any developments,” she said.
