ICMR expands wastewater surveillance for 10 viruses across 50 cities for early warning system
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is significantly expanding its wastewater surveillance program to monitor 10 viruses across 50 cities, up from the current five. This initiative aims to establish an early warning system by identifying increases in viral load trends in communities at the earliest stage. Currently, COVID-19 and polio viruses are under surveillance. ICMR is also involved in environmental surveillance for viruses like avian influenza and maintains robust surveillance systems for influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI). Additionally, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance is ongoing in several hospitals.
Key Points
- ICMR is expanding its wastewater surveillance program to detect 10 viruses in 50 cities, up from five.
- The program's goal is to establish an early warning system for viral outbreaks by monitoring community viral load.
- This initiative complements existing surveillance systems for ILI, SARI, and antimicrobial resistance.
- Wastewater surveillance is a crucial tool for public health, enabling proactive responses to potential epidemics.
Exam Facts
- The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is leading the initiative.
- The surveillance will cover 10 viruses across 50 cities.
- Currently, COVID-19 and polio viruses are under surveillance.
- Dr. Rajiv Bahl is the head of ICMR.
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