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Health

"HMPV Virus Discovered in Indonesia: Minister Assures, ‘It’s Like the Common Flu, No Need for Panic"

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Detected in Indonesia: Ministry of Health Urges Public Not to Panic

The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which recently saw an outbreak in China, has been detected in Indonesia. All reported cases involve children. In response, Indonesian Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged the public not to panic, stating that HMPV is not a new virus and is already well-known in the medical world.

"HMPV has been present in Indonesia for a long time. Upon checking, it’s there. I myself saw data from several labs yesterday, and it turns out that some children have been infected with HMPV," Minister Sadikin said during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday, January 6, 2025.

The Minister explained that HMPV differs from COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, which is a new virus, HMPV is an old virus similar to the flu. The human immune system has been familiar with this virus for a long time and can respond to it effectively.

"Unlike COVID-19, which emerged a few years ago, HMPV is an old virus that has been around since 2001 and has been circulating globally since then. Until now, there have been no significant issues," the Minister stated.

Regarding reports of HMPV cases increasing in China, Minister Sadikin clarified that the information is incorrect and has been confirmed by both the Chinese government and the World Health Organization (WHO). He explained that China, being a four-season country, often experiences an increase in common flu cases during the winter season.

"The information I’ve seen shows that the virus in question in China is not HMPV but H1N1, a common flu virus. HMPV ranks third in China in terms of prevalence, so the information is incorrect," Minister Sadikin explained.

The Minister also reassured the public that HMPV is not a deadly virus, similar to the common flu. Its symptoms include cough, fever, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Most infected individuals recover on their own without special treatment.

HMPV spreads similarly to other flu viruses, through droplet transmission. Although generally not dangerous, vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with certain health conditions should remain vigilant.

Therefore, the Ministry of Health urges the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adequate rest, regular hand washing, wearing a mask if feeling unwell, and promptly consulting a healthcare professional if suspicious symptoms arise.

"Most importantly, stay calm and be vigilant. By following the 3M health protocols, maintaining a safe distance, washing your hands, and wearing a mask, we can manage this virus effectively, just like we did with COVID-19," the Minister concluded.

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Health

Bali Residents Warned of Spreading HMPV Outbreak in China

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline:
Bali on High Alert: Dinkes Monitors Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Amid China Outbreak

Subhead:
Island tightens surveillance and preparedness as respiratory virus spreads in China.

Introduction:
Amid a rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) case count in China, Bali’s health authority, Dinas Kesehatan (Dinkes), is bolstering its vigilance. The virus, while similar to the common flu, is causing concern given its spreading momentum and potential severe symptoms, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Article Body:

Dinkes Bali Raises Awareness and Surveillance
Denpasar, Indonesia – Dinkes Bali is stepping up its watch over the potential entry and spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the region. The Acting Head of the Prevention and Control of Disease Division, I Gusti Ayu Raka Susanti, told local media outlet detikBali, "We are on alert and increasing our surveillance in areas where there is a high influx of people, while coordinating with healthcare facilities to ensure readiness."

The Bali health department is also amplifying health promotion activities, even down to the village health center level. Moreover, it is collaborating with the Quarantine Office to monitor the health of incoming tourists, particularly those from China.

KKP Kelas I Denpasar Monitors Arrivals from Malaysia and China
Bali’s leading Quarantine Office, KKP Kelas I Denpasar, is closely monitoring flights from Malaysia and China at Ngurah Rai International Airport. “Maskapai-maskapai yang dari China dan Malaysia perlu kami atensi khusus, walaupun kami belum menerapkan protokol kesehatan,” said Anak Agung Ngurah Kesumajaya, the Head of KKP Kelas I Denpasar.

To prevent HMPV entry, the office is implementing a variety of strategies. All passengers are required to fill out the Satu Sehat Health Pass (SSHP) three days before their flight. This enables the detection of potential HMPV symptoms before arrival. Three thermo scanners at the international arrival gates help identify passengers with high body temperatures, who are then directed to the airport’s quarantine clinic for further examination.

Ministry of Health on HMPV
The Indonesian Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, has addressed the global rise in HMPV cases. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV is not a new virus and has been present since 2001. Indonesia has recorded cases but the virus is not fatal, according to the Minister. He assured the public that while HMPV causes respiratory symptoms, it is not as severe as COVID-19.

Installment of Health Measures
Bali is fortifying its healthcare infrastructure and preparedness to address the potential spread of HMPV. Several leading hospitals, including RSUP Prof. Dr. I Gede Nipah Putra, Bali Mandara Hospital, and Siloam Hospital, have been designated as referral hospitals for HMPV cases.

Conclusion
Bali’s proactive approach to monitoring and preparedness, led by Dinkes Bali and KKP Kelas I Denpasar, demonstrates the island’s commitment to safeguarding public health while maintaining its vibrant tourism industry. As the Human Metapneumovirus situation evolves, Bali’s health authorities remain vigilant, ready to take further action if necessary.

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News

Police Identify Suspect in Death of Dr. Aulia at University of Papua’s PTTM

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline: Breaking: Suspects Identified in Alleged Bullying Case Linked to Death of Undip PPDS Student

Article:

In a significant development, the Criminal Investigation Division (Dirkrimum) of the Central Java Regional Police (Polda Jateng) has confirmed the identification of suspects in the case of alleged bullying and intimidation that led to the death of Dr. Aulia Risma, a student at the Anestesi Postgraduate Program (PPDS) of the University of Diponegoro (Undip). The news was announced by the Director of the Criminal Investigation Division, Commissioner Dwi Subagio.

Subagio avoided revealing the names of the suspects, stating that more detailed information would be disclosed by the head of the Public Relations Division of Polda Jateng. "Yes, there are [suspects]. The results of the investigation are already out. Please ask the head of the Public Relations Division, we’re still waiting for the announcement from the head of the Public Relations Division," Dwi said when contacted by a journalist on Monday (23/12).

Meanwhile, the head of the Public Relations Division of Polda Jateng, Commissioner Artanto, stated that he was still studying the results of the investigation. He will provide information after consulting with the Criminal Investigation Division.

The family’s attorney, Misyal Ahmad, also revealed that there have been developments in the police investigation. He expressed hope that the results would be announced the next day.

"It is hoped that tomorrow, insha’Allah, we will receive good news regarding the results of the investigation into the bullying case at the PPDS Undip involving Dr. Risma Aulia," Ahmad said in a brief message.

The case came to light when Aulia Risma’s body was found in a rented room in Semarang on August 12, 2024. Her death was suspected to belinked to bullying and intimidation at her educational institution.

The Ministry of Health (Menkes) has temporarily suspended the PPDS Anestesi Undip program following the incident. Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin recently stated that the suspension would be lifted once the bullying investigation is complete.

Artanto revealed that the case had been elevated to the investigation stage since October 7, 2024. As of October, 48 witnesses, including senior and junior doctors as well as university officials, have been examined.

Artanto also noted that the investigation was focusing on the alleged intimidation and bullying within the academic environment of the PPDS Anestesi Undip program.

The police are expected to provide further updates on the case soon.

Read more here. (tim/wis)

Subheadings:

  • Police Confirm Suspects in Undip Bullying Case
  • Family’s Attorney Hopes for News Tomorrow
  • Investigation Focuses on Intimidation within Academic Environment
  • Ministry of Health Suspends PPDS Anestesi Undip Pending Investigation
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