Beware Of HMPV Infections, Here Are 5 Effective Tips To Prevent Transmission

Illustration of wearing a mask to prevent transmission of HMPV (Pexels)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Ministry of Health announced that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus has entered Indonesia. However, people are asked not to panic, because the virus is not a new virus and is already known in the medical world.

HMPV is a respiratory virus that mainly causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections. General symptoms of HMPV range from flu, cough, nasal congestion, fever, to worse conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

This virus spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, and interactions with infected people. With that, the prevention of transmission of this virus must be carried out by everyone, by the way below, reported by NDTV, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Steps that must be taken to prevent transmission of this virus are to use masks, especially in crowded places. Maintaining distance also needs to be done, especially if there are people around who are sick. Keep your distance from people who show symptoms of respiratory diseases such as coughing and sneezing.

Washing hands regularly also needs to be done to avoid HMPV. It should be understood that various germs and viruses can be infected from non-sterile hands.

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially when in public places. If soap is not available, use hand sanitizers that contain at least 60 percent alcohol.

HMPV transmission can also go through the eye and mouth area, especially if you touch it with dirty hands. Thus, avoid touching the eye, nose, and mouth area with un washed hands, to avoid the risk of transmission.

Taking care of the cleanliness of goods, especially those that are often held, such as cell phones, drinking bottles, door handles, can help prevent the transmission of HMPV. These items are among the areas most risky to be exposed to germs to viruses. Make sure to clean them with alcohol regularly to stay safe when held.

The last steps that can be taken are a healthy lifestyle, starting from maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. This will support your immune system so that you can avoid HMPV infection.