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JAKARTA, kiprahkita.net - The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which recently made headlines due to a reported outbreak in China, has been detected in Indonesia, with all identified cases involving children.
In response, Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin has called for calm, emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus and is well-documented in the medical field.
“HMPV has been present in Indonesia for quite some time. I’ve reviewed data from several labs, and indeed, some children have been found infected with HMPV,” Minister Budi stated on Monday (January 6, 2025).
He clarified that HMPV differs from COVID-19, which was a novel virus. In contrast, HMPV was first identified in 2001 and is akin to the flu, having circulated globally for years.
Minister Budi reassured that the human immune system is familiar with HMPV and can respond effectively to it.
Addressing reports of rising HMPV cases in China, he refuted the claims, stating that both the Chinese government and the World Health Organization (WHO) had confirmed the information to be incorrect.
“I’ve reviewed the data. The surge in China is due to H1N1, a common flu virus, not HMPV. In terms of prevalence, HMPV ranks third in China. So the reports about HMPV are inaccurate,” he explained.
Minister Budi emphasized that HMPV is not a deadly virus. Its symptoms are similar to those of the flu, including cough, fever, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Most individuals recover on their own without needing specialized treatment.
HMPV spreads similarly to other flu viruses, through respiratory droplets from an infected person.
While generally not severe, vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting health conditions should exercise caution.
Minister Budi advised the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle and adhere to basic health protocols to prevent the spread of HMPV.
These include getting adequate rest, washing hands regularly, wearing masks when feeling unwell, and seeking medical attention if concerning symptoms arise.
“The most important thing is to remain calm and vigilant. By following health protocols like the 3M—maintaining distance, washing hands, and wearing masks—we can effectively manage this virus just as we have with COVID-19,” Minister Budi concluded.(infopublik)
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