January-February . 2025 | The HEALTH
COVER STORY 13
HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS INFECTION ( hMPV ) NOT A NEW DISEASE !
Preventive measures and health care
HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS INFECTION ( hMPV )
NOT a new disease
Is a respiratory tract infection caused by a virus in the Pneumoviridae family
Practice preventive measures
Practice the culture of healthy living and take care of the well-being of the environment
Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
If symptomatic
Rest at home and avoid being in crowded areas ( crowded and cramped )
Wear a face mask , especially when in closed , crowded or cramped spaces
Get treatment from a nearby health facility
Practice cough etiquette by covering your mouth and nose using a tissue or elbow
It is not mandatory to be notified under the Prevention Act and Control of Infectious Diseases 1988 [ Act 342 ]
Cough Sore throat Fever A cold Headache Preventive Measures
Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
Symptoms of hMPV
Practice good cough etiquette
With these preventive and care measures we can together ensure a healthier environment and well-being for all .
Wear a face mask , especially for high-risk individuals or those with symptoms in closed and crowded places
• Avoid contact with the face , particularly the eyes , nose , and mouth , with unwashed hands , as this can facilitate the entry of viruses into the body .
• Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the dispersion of droplets .
• Staying at home when feeling unwell to avoid spreading infections to others . The Ministry also encouraged individuals experiencing prolonged or worsening symptoms to seek medical attention immediately at nearby government or private healthcare facilities .
TREATMENT AND VACCINE
Currently , there is no specific antiviral treatment for hMPV , as the majority of cases present mild symptoms .
Dr Suresh highlighted that for severe cases , particularly in vulnerable children , treatment is generally supportive rather than curative .
“ No specific antiviral drug is available for hMPV , and most patients recover with symptomatic care .”
While no vaccine exists for hMPV , Dr Suresh informed that several promising candidates are in various stages of development . This is a crucial area of ongoing research , as a vaccine could significantly reduce the incidence of this virus in the future .
PREPAREDNESS FOR SURGES
In light of the rising infection numbers , MoH is actively monitoring the situation both domestically and internationally .
Dr Suresh assured : “ Any outbreak incident will be managed according to existing standard operating procedures and guidelines .”
To ensure the preparedness level of health personnel , facilities , and the nation remains optimal , the Ministry of Health conducts regular simulation exercises related to outbreak preparedness and response at the national and state levels .
This includes ensuring access to treatment facilities , such as clinics and hospitals , remains at an optimal level to face any outbreak incident .
Moreover , the Ministry collaborates with international bodies such as the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) and ASEAN to stay informed about outbreaks that may pose a risk to Malaysia .
Continuous surveillance and early warning systems are in place to detect any potential health threats .
“ We monitor outbreaks or healthrelated incidents in Malaysia through event-based surveillance , which is reported to the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre ( CPRC ),” Dr Suresh explained .
MONITORING AND RESEARCH EFFORTS
Ongoing monitoring and research efforts are crucial in tracking hMPV and other respiratory infections . MoH engages in various activities , including :
• Cooperating with various countries and international organisations to obtain immediate information regarding any outbreaks or healthrelated incidents that could spread across borders .
• Enhancing preparedness , screening , and handling of diseases that have the potential to cause outbreaks or pandemics , ensuring the country ’ s safety at International Points of Entry ( PMA ).
• Conducting continuous surveillance for diseases , both clinically and through laboratory means , serves as an early warning system for any potential outbreak .
LOOKING AHEAD
As Malaysia experiences a tropical climate , the patterns of respiratory infections differ from those in colder temperate regions that often witness winter surges . Dr Suresh pointed out that while hMPV does not require routine monitoring , it can still be detected through PCR or antigen tests in both private and government hospitals .
“ There has been no new mutation noted in this virus so far , nor any indication that it has become more dangerous ,” he confirmed , providing a note of reassurance for the public .
With respiratory infections expected to persist , the MoH urges the public to remain vigilant and practice good health hygiene . As respiratory viruses like hMPV circulate , understanding the transmission dynamics and adhering to preventive measures can help mitigate the spread and protect vulnerable populations .
The Ministry continues to enhance its preparedness in the face of these seasonal challenges , ensuring that healthcare resources are optimally positioned to respond effectively .
The commitment to ongoing monitoring and public health education will be key in navigating the complexities of respiratory infections in Malaysia . – The HEALTH