Headline: HMPV Outbreak: Symptoms are Mild, Says Health Ministry Official
Subhead: Despite Increasing Cases in China, Indonesian Officials Reiterate That HMPV is Not a Deadly Illness
Jakarta, Indonesia – The Directorate of Communication and Public Information of the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has assured the public that the symptoms of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) are relatively mild. Aji Muhawarman, the director, clarified that typical symptoms usually include fever and cough, similar to other common viruses.
HMPV, which has been an endemic since 2001, is considered a familiar virus by the ministry. Aji believes that many Indonesians have built immunity against it, given it’s been around for so long. However, he warned that certain vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly with compromised immune systems, should still be cautious.
"For healthy individuals, it’s a self-limiting disease. It’s basically just the common cold," Aji said.
Unfortunately, there’s no specific treatment or vaccine available for HMPV yet. Therefore, Aji advised those infected to get enough rest, drink plenty of fluids, and maintain a balanced diet for a speedy recovery. While there’s no cure for the virus itself, over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms such as cough and fever.
Globally, HMPV cases have been on the rise. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an increase in HMPV cases during the week of December 16 to 22, 2024. Indonesia has also detected HMPV cases, according to Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin. He emphasized that HMPV is a long-standing virus and is not a deadly disease.
Indonesia encourages the public to take preventive measures such as practicing good hygiene, washing hands regularly, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
