HMPV cases surge in Malaysia after outbreak in China
India detects two cases for first time
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After China, Malaysia has experienced a notable surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in recent months, raising concerns about the potential spread of respiratory illnesses.
According to the Strait Times report, as many as 327 HMPV cases were reported in Malaysia in 2024, marking a 45 per cent increase from 225 cases in 2023.
The Malaysian government has advised the public to take preventive measures to prevent the spread of the respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms.
The measures include frequent hand-washing with soap, wearing face masks, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
An Indian news outlet said HMPV is known to cause flu-like symptoms and can also present symptoms similar to COVID-19, prompting health officials to closely monitor the situation. The increase in infection comes five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, and reports suggest the virus is spreading rapidly.
The Indian health ministry on Monday confirmed the detection of two cases of HMPV in Karnataka during routine surveillance.