The HMPV epidemic spreading in China is routine and occurs every year, but Asian countries still warn people to be careful.
China is facing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has similar symptoms to Covid-19. The disease is spreading rapidly, overwhelming some hospitals. On January 4, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning spoke out to reassure about the common virus, saying that respiratory infections usually peak at this time of year.
However, countries and territories around the world remain vigilant against the epidemic.
Malaysiarecorded 327 cases of HMPV infection in 2024, up 45% from 225 cases in 2023. Patients in this country often have symptoms similar to a cold, but in more severe cases, symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia.
The Malaysian Ministry of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant, especially as respiratory infections persist in the community. The agency recommends that people wash their hands with soap, wear face masks, and cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
"The public needs to take the initiative to take care of their health and prevent infection to others, especially in closed and crowded areas, and should consider when planning to travel to countries with high risk of infection," said the Malaysian Ministry of Health.
According to the agency, the increase in respiratory diseases at the beginning and end of the year is expected, and has also been reported in many countries, especially those with cold seasons. The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the development of the epidemic, enhance preparedness and take appropriate actions.
Similarly, on January 5, the Ministry of HealthVietnamalso warned that our country is entering the respiratory disease season in the context of approaching Lunar New Year, the demand for travel, trade, and contact has increased dramatically. The Vietnamese Ministry of Health recommends that people not panic, worry but not be subjective, neglect the development of the disease, especially in the winter-spring period with favorable weather conditions for respiratory pathogens to spread.
Deputy Director of the Center for Disease ControlTaiwan(CDC), Ms. Tseng Shu-Hui said the outbreak could also affect this area. The agency is closely monitoring further developments.
In an interview on January 2, Dr. Chen Chih-jung of Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital said that the virus affects the lower respiratory tract, and some children may need to be hospitalized. However, the disease is generally less severe than the flu.
Dr Cheng also pointed out that HMPV occurs year-round in Taiwan. Hospitals will see sporadic cases, sometimes with spikes, but most children recover well. He encouraged people to avoid crowded places, wear masks, and wash their hands frequently to ensure the disease does not spread.
Recently, the Department of Infectious Disease ControlCambodiahas issued a warning about HMPV, noting that it resembles Covid-19 and influenza. The Ministry of Health has urged people to take precautions against the virus during the cold season. In a press release, the ministry said HMPV causes symptoms such as fever, cough, stuffy nose, sore throat and sneezing.
"This virus can cause serious illness in infants, children, people over 65 years of age or people with weakened immune systems," the report said.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Health said the country’s weather is not too cold, so the illness is not as severe as the flu, and most children have recovered. Cases in the country are mild, but 6-16% of children can develop bronchitis or pneumonia. The ministry also issued recommendations to prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory diseases, including maintaining hygiene, wearing masks in crowded places, keeping a distance from others, washing hands frequently, and avoiding crowded places when possible.
IndiaOn January 4, the government also called on the public to remain calm about the spread of HMPV in China, affirming that it was "well prepared" to respond to the epidemic. The General Administration of Medical Services and the Ministry of Health held a meeting with experts to discuss response measures. Analysis showed that HMPV is not an unusual epidemic and there has been no recent increase in respiratory cases. However, the government is still closely monitoring the situation and increasing testing for HMPV.
The DGHS Director General advised people to take precautions similar to those for respiratory infections, such as avoiding contact with others, especially high-risk groups if they are suffering from cough and fever.
VN (according to VnExpress)