The HEALTH | January-February . 2025

Navigating the rise of human metapneumovirus cases

BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN

This surge in respiratory infections has prompted health officials to reiterate the importance of public vigilance and proactive health measures , particularly as the nation navigates a seasonal uptick in respiratory illnesses .

UNDERSTANDING HMPV

hMPV is part of the Pneumoviridae family and is known to cause respiratory tract infections .

While it can affect individuals of all ages , Hospital Sungai Buloh Infectious Diseases Senior Consultant Datuk Dr Suresh Kumar emphasised that the virus typically presented more serious health risks for young children , especially those under five .

In older children and adults , symptoms often resemble those of a common cold , including cough , sore throat , and headache .

Dr Suresh explained : “ Even though hMPV can infect people of all ages , it is

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS INFECTION ( hMPV ) NOT A NEW DISEASE !

Symptoms of hMPV

Sore throat A cold Headache

Fever Cough

Among the symptoms that often occur in other respiratory tract infections

associated with more severe illness in young children . For older individuals , the symptoms are usually mild and manageable .”

This highlights the need for parents and caregivers to be particularly attentive to the health of young children

Dr Suresh Kumar during this period .

AWARENESS AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Given that hMPV is one of several seasonal respiratory viruses , the MoH has indicated that routine monitoring is not currently in place .

However , Dr Suresh emphasised the need for public understanding of how respiratory viruses transmit .

“ These viruses spread through respiratory secretions , which can be directly inhaled from tiny droplets produced by coughing , sneezing , or talking . Proximity to an infected person increases the risk of transmission .”

To mitigate the spread of hMPV and other respiratory infections , the MoH has recommended several preventive measures , particularly for those in crowded or enclosed spaces . These include :

• Wearing well-fitted masks in crowded areas to reduce the risk of inhaling infectious droplets .

• Practising frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitiser when soap is unavailable .