a respiratory virus spreading to other Asian countries

a respiratory virus spreading to other Asian countries
a respiratory virus spreading to other Asian countries

Malaysia has seen a significant increase in cases of human metapneumovirus over the last few months. This information comes even though China reported it a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses in recent weeks. India’s health ministry also convened a meeting on Saturday to take stock of the growing number of cases. Authorities, however, insist there is no cause for concern at the moment.

Malaysia’s Health Ministry urged people to remain vigilant and noted that respiratory tract infections will continue to exist. Malaysia recorded 327 cases of HMPV in 2024, an increase of 45% from the 225 cases reported in 2023.

Citizens were also reminded to respect hygiene measuressuch as washing your hands with soap, wearing a mask, and covering your nose and mouth if you cough or sneeze. Authorities, however, sought to allay concerns and insisted that an increase in respiratory tract infections at the start and end of the year was an expected phenomenon.

China has recently seen an increase in respiratory illnesses, with photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals going viral on social media. However, authorities described the situation as a “winter phenomenon” and insisted it was completely safe to travel to China. This has raised concerns as the world continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The HPMV virus

Indian authorities are currently monitoring the situation but saw no reason for alarm on Sunday.

“Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes a cold and in very old and very young people it can cause flu-like symptoms. We analyzed the data on respiratory epidemics in the country, there is no such substantial increase in 2024,” official sources told ANI.

What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV) ?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes lower and upper respiratory infections (such as the common cold). It is a seasonal illness that usually occurs in winter and early spring, like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.

Is HMPV a new virus?

The HMPV virus is not a recent virus. It was first discovered in 2001 by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, some serological data suggests that the virus has been widespread since at least 1958, according to a virologist expert on the subject. It belongs to the pneumovirinae family, just like RSV.

Is HMPV similar to COVID-19?

Yes. Coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The HMPV virus and the SARS-CoV-2 virus are similar in some ways:

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1. Both viruses cause respiratory illnesses in people of all ages. Young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are likely most at risk.

2. The symptoms are also similar. Symptoms commonly associated with the HMPV virus include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. These are also the symptoms exhibited by people infected with the COVID-19 virus.

3. Both viruses are usually spread from an infected person to other people through secretions from coughs and sneezes and close personal contact. They are also spread by touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

4. According to Science Direct, COVID-19 appears to be temperature sensitive and therefore seasonal. Similarly, the HMPV virus circulates in distinct annual seasons, the US CDC said. Although the HMPV virus can be detected throughout the year, infections typically peak in the United States between late winter and early spring.

Is there a vaccine to prevent the spread of HMPV?

No. There is currently no vaccine and antiviral treatment is not recommended. However, patients can help prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses by taking the following steps:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (see the CDC website “Clean Hands Save Lives!”).

Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with sick people.

Patients with cold symptoms should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Avoid sharing cups and utensils with others.

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