East Jakarta Health Sub-agency Head, Herwin Meifrendy calls on residents to practice a clean and healthy lifestyle (PHBS), anticipating the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in East Jakarta.

We urge residents to be vigilant by implementing PHBS

According to him, the virus, which was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, could trigger respiratory infections in humans with symptoms like the common flu, such as cough, running nose, fever, and sore throat.

"Thus far, there have been no reports of residents confirmed with the HMPV virus. We urge residents to be vigilant by implementing PHBS, always washing hands and wearing masks," he expressed, Friday (1/10).

According to him, the virus is vulnerable to toddlers, adults aged 65 and over, patients with weak immune systems, and patients with chronic respiratory diseases.

"The transmission is through direct contact with sufferers, air (droplets), and touching contaminated surfaces," he explained.

For treatment, patients should have plenty of rest, hydration, oxygenation, and supportive care.

"For those who are already in the severe category, treatment can also take antiviral drugs," he concluded.

As for the information, the current situation regarding the HMPV virus is there is an increase in cases in China, especially among children and the elderly.

Currently, several countries, such as Hong Kong and Japan, are tightening monitoring and taking preventive measures.

"No vaccine for HMPV, so prevention and treatment focus on symptoms," he closed.