UNAIR NEWS – Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has recently drawn attention from the global medical community as a respiratory virus of concern. Although it has been known for some time, the virus has regained focus following cases affecting children in several countries, including Indonesia. Addressing this issue, Dr. Muhammad Atoillah Isfandiari, MKes, an epidemiologist from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), shed light on its characteristics and preventive measures.
Dr. Isfandiari explained that HMPV belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes the viruses that cause measles and mumps. It is distinct from SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19, which is part of the Coronavirus family.
“While both viruses are transmitted through respiratory pathways, HMPV symptoms are generally mild and rarely lead to severe cases unless the individual has a severely compromised immune system,” he said. Unlike COVID-19, which can cause extensive lung damage, HMPV does not carry the same fatal potential.
Health risks and vulnerable populations
Dr. Isfandiari pointed out that HMPV cases are routinely identified, especially in countries with well-developed genomic surveillance systems. “HMPV cases occur annually, predominantly during winter, and the mortality rate is very low. In Indonesia, the situation would likely follow a similar pattern,” said the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Public Health UNAIR.
However, he cautioned that extra vigilance is needed for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. “Children and older adults are more susceptible due to their weaker immune systems compared to individuals in their productive years,” he explained. For infants and toddlers, the virus poses a greater risk of developing into pneumonia or severe lung infections that may require hospitalization.
Prevention and strengthening health systems
To prevent the airborne spread of HMPV, Dr. Isfandiari recommended avoiding close contact with individuals who show symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, or fever. “Wear masks in crowded spaces, avoid interacting with sick individuals, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep and protein intake,” he advised.
The spread of HMPV in Indonesia is also influenced by high levels of international travel and mobility. In addition to individual precautions, he advocated for enhanced surveillance and reporting systems for Influenza-like Illness (ILI). “These surveillance systems are invaluable for early detection, even though they are not specifically tailored for HMPV,” he noted.
Although the potential for HMPV to cause a global outbreak exists, its current mortality rate does not pose a significant threat. Nevertheless, Dr. Isfandiari emphasized that public awareness is crucial for early detection and effective prevention.
“There’s no need for panic, but it’s important to take proper preventive steps. Most infections caused by this virus are self-limiting and resolve naturally, provided the immune system remains strong,” he concluded.
Author: Yang Ramadia Nurya Syifa
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
