GEORGE TOWN: Despite the spread of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) that brings runny noses to common influenza-like illnesses, Malaysians can still go on their Chinese New Year holidays with peace of mind, say health experts.
Most of the viruses that cause these respiratory disorders are present in Malaysia throughout the year but infection spikes in temperate countries during their winter months can increase local infection rates due to international travel, they said.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) family medicine specialist Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said HMPV, which is recording a significant number of cases in China, had affected Malaysia due to the heavy flow of travellers between the two countries.
She said genetically, HMPV shares similarities with Covid-19, as both are ribonucleic acid (RNA) based viruses.
“HMPV is not as severe as Covid-19, particularly in terms of transmission risk. It doesn’t spread as quickly nor is it as dangerous as Covid-19.
“While its structure is somewhat similar, the replication process and other genetic factors differ, making it less impactful compared with Covid-19,” she said.
Dr Mastura said the basic precautions learned during the pandemic years are enough to keep HMPV at bay – these include frequent hand-washing, wearing masks, avoiding crowded places and limiting activities in enclosed spaces like malls.
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USM virologist Dr Kumitaa Theva Das said HMPV is a common virus and most adults would have been infected by it at least once.
“They might not realise it because the symptoms are so much like the flu. There have been cases where the symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia in those who are very young or elderly with a weakened immune system, but these are rare.
“Like any virus, HMPV can spread when in close contact with droplets left by an infected person, through coughing and sneezing.
“We could also become exposed if we touch our mouth, nose or eyes after touching an infected surface.
“Since HMPV infections occur in younger children, families travelling with kids can be more mindful and seek medical help if a respiratory infection is prolonged or gets more severe,” she added.
State health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said so far the situation in Penang is under control and tightly monitored by health authorities there.
He advised the public to take the same safety measures they did during the Covid-19 pandemic as a precaution and to prevent further spread.
He said those who experience prolonged or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention immediately at the nearest healthcare facility.
Gooi added that the public can use the same techniques they used during the pandemic, like always covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, either by using a tissue or wearing a face mask.
He said wearing a face mask is highly recommended, particularly for people at high risk of infection or those showing symptoms.
This is especially important in enclosed or crowded spaces where the risk of transmission is higher.
