The Department of Health (DOH) clarified on Wednesday, Jan. 8, that the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is neither a "new disease" nor a "new virus."
The DOH issued the statement following an upward trend in common acute respiratory infections, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and hMPV, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) in its Disease Outbreak News on Jan. 7.
Citing the WHO, the DOH noted that this "upward trend" is expected during the winter season in China and other countries in the Northern Hemisphere.
"Chinese authorities have also clarified to the WHO that the Chinese healthcare system is not overwhelmed and that no emergency declarations or responses have been triggered," the DOH said.
Not new
The DOH emphasized that hMPV is not a "new disease."
"It was discovered in 2001 by Dutch researchers in nasopharyngeal aspirate samples from children with respiratory infections caused by unknown pathogens," the DOH explained.
"hMPV is not a new virus," DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said. "We have been able to identify it for a long time," he added.
Herbosa noted that the symptoms of hMPV are "not severe."
"Like the common cough and cold, it heals on its own as long as our resistance is strong," he said.
hMPV in the Philippines
The DOH explained that in the Philippines, hMPV is tested as part of Panel 2 (expanded panel) for specimens that test negative on Panel 1 (for Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV). This testing is conducted as part of the country's Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) surveillance programs.
According to the DOH, hMPV ranked 6th among the identified causative agents of ILI in the Philippines in 2024.
Data from Jan. 1 to Dec. 21, 2024, showed that 284 out of 4,921 samples (5.8 percent) tested positive for hMPV. More recently, from Dec. 1 to 21, 2024, 10 out of 339 samples (2.9 percent) tested positive.
"hMPV is being detected sporadically, with no unusual clustering or patterns throughout the year," the DOH stated.
Most individuals infected with hMPV experience mild upper respiratory symptoms, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Rare severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
The DOH noted that people with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or emphysema, are at a higher risk of severe outcomes.
ILI cases in the Philippines remain ‘low’
Meanwhile, the DOH reported that its Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) Surveillance System logged a total of 179,227 cases as of Dec. 31, 2024.
This is 17 percent lower than the 216,786 cases recorded in 2023.
"This decrease may be attributed to better health-seeking behaviors, practices, and improved preparations by the health sector," the DOH said.
ILI is characterized by cough, colds, and fever. It is commonly caused by respiratory viruses, with Rhinovirus (1,257 out of 4,921 or 25.5 percent of positive samples), Enterovirus (1,140 out of 4,921 or 23.2 percent), Influenza A (1,072 out of 4,921 or 21.8 percent), RSV (560 out of 4,921 or 11.4 percent), and Adenovirus (527 out of 4,921 or 10.7 percent) being the top five causative agents in the Philippines.
Prevention during the cooler 'amihan' season
The DOH encouraged the public to practice respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs with elbows, staying home when experiencing symptoms like cough, cold, or fever, and frequently washing hands with soap and water as the cooler northeast monsoon, or "amihan" season, persists.
The DOH highlighted that the "amihan" season can lead to an "increase in respiratory conditions, such as allergies or respiratory infections."
Strengthen the immune system
The DOH reminded the public, especially the young, immunocompromised, and elderly, to take precautions, including frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded places when possible, and maintaining a healthy diet.
Those at high risk or experiencing complicated symptoms were urged to seek medical care promptly.
Herbosa stressed the importance of boosting the immune system during the "amihan" season.
"Remember TED — Tamang pagkain (proper diet), Exercise, and Discipline in caring for the body to strengthen resistance and avoid diseases," Herbosa stressed.
"When sick, just stay home. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol," he said. "Facemasks remain voluntary but are advisable for those with symptoms or those who want to avoid airborne illnesses," he added.