Malaysia HMPV Virus: Cases of HMPV infection are reportedly increasing in China. 327 HMPV cases were reported in the country in 2024, which is 45% more than 225 cases in 2023. This increase comes amid reports of increasing lung diseases in other countries including China. According to the Straits Times, Malaysia’s Health Ministry has requested people to take care of themselves.
The ministry said people should wash hands frequently with soap, wear a face mask and cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. The ministry said, “The public is advised to actively take care of their health and prevent infection of others, especially in crowded areas. This includes people planning to travel to high-risk countries.”
However, the ministry stressed that HMPV is not a new disease. HMPV is a respiratory infection caused by a virus of the Pneumoviridae family. Symptoms are often similar to the common cold, but in severe cases, bronchitis or pneumonia may occur.
Why is HMPV in discussion?
HMPV is a virus of the Pneumoviridae family. It was discovered in 2001. It is a respiratory virus that usually causes upper and lower respiratory infections, with symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. China is currently seeing an increase in cases of HMPV, along with other respiratory diseases such as influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and COVID-19. Reports suggest that hospitals in some areas are extremely busy, but Chinese authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) have not declared a state of emergency.
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