How preventive measures can shield vulnerable heart patients from serious HMPV complications
17 May 2025 09:00am
While there is currently no specific vaccine for HMPV, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcal diseases is crucial. Photo: Canva
AS Malaysia experiences a notable rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, with a 45 per cent increase reported in 2024 compared to the previous year of 2023, individuals with pre-existing heart conditions face heightened risks. Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre Consultant Cardiologist and Physician Dr G.S. Sridhar emphasises the importance of preventive measures to protect this vulnerable group from severe respiratory complications.
As a general definition, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that typically causes symptoms akin to the common cold and flu.
While most infections are mild in nature, HMPV can lead to serious respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups including young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions like heart disease.
"Individuals with conditions such as hypertension or heart failure can reduce their risk of contracting respiratory viruses like HMPV by adopting several practical measures." Dr Sridhar noted. Consultant Cardiologist and Physician Dr G.S. Sridhar emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to protect this vulnerable group from severe respiratory complications.
These practical measures include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with the unwell, wearing masks in crowded settings, and ensuring good indoor ventilation.
Alternatively, while there is currently no specific vaccine for HMPV, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcal diseases is crucial.
"Receiving the annual flu shot is essential, as influenza can significantly worsen existing heart conditions.
"It is also important to get the Covid-19 vaccine and booster doses if eligible, as Covid-19 has been shown to affect cardiovascular health," Dr Sridhar said.
The Role of Lifestyle in Prevention
A robust cardiovascular system enhances the body's ability to combat infections and ensures better prospects of warding off viruses such as HMPV, a sentiment championed by Dr Sridhar as he emphasised the significance of a healthy lifestyle.
"A strong cardiovascular system is better equipped to handle infections, making overall heart health a key factor in reducing complications from illnesses like HMPV."
He recommends a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, coupled with regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. Adhering to prescribed medications for heart conditions is also vital in mitigating risks. Practical measures to prevent contracting HMPV include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with the unwell, wearing masks in crowded settings, and ensuring good indoor ventilation. Photo: Canva
The Healthy Ministry in a previous statement also urges the public to remain vigilant and practice preventive measures which include frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, and practicing proper cough etiquette.
"The public is advised to proactively take care of their health and prevent infection to others, especially in enclosed and crowded areas.
'This includes those planning to travel to countries at risk.' the Ministry stated.
With the rising incidence of HMPV in Malaysia, it's imperative for individuals, especially those with heart conditions, to adopt comprehensive preventive measures.
Through vigilant hygiene practices, staying current with vaccinations, and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, the risks associated with HMPV can be significantly reduced.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
Game-changing treatment for advanced prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among Malaysian men, with cases rising steadily since 2012. While it trails behind colorectal and lung cancer, it is still a significant concern. What's more worrying is that many cases are detected late. Early-stage prostate cancer is highly treatable, but late-stage cases are far more difficult to manage. What is prostate cancer? The disease begins when cells in the prostate – a small, walnut-sized gland below the bladder – start to grow uncontrollably. In its early stages, prostate cancer often causes no symptoms. But as the tumour grows, it can press against the urethra – the tube that carries urine – leading to changes in urination. Left untreated, the cancer can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or even the bones, making it more difficult to treat and manage. Yet, many men overlook the early signs. However, symptoms such as difficulty urinating, weak flow, or frequent trips to the bathroom at night may be early warning signs of prostate cancer. Sunway University consultant urologist and urologic oncologist Professor Dr Tan Guan Hee explains that these symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for benign prostate conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia. 'Many men assume it's just part of getting older and delay seeing a doctor,' he says. 'Unfortunately, this means prostate cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage, when it's more difficult to treat.' As Malaysia's population continues to age, the number of prostate-related issues is expected to rise in tandem. Despite this, there is a general lack of awareness of the problem, minimal symptoms in early stages, and a cultural reluctance to seek help for intimate health issues. When prostate cancer is detected early, treatment options such as surgery or radiotherapy are often effective and potentially curative. However, late-stage prostate cancer, which may have already spread to bones or lymph nodes (metastasised), requires more advanced interventions. This is where radioligand therapy (RLT) offers new hope. Overcoming stigma One significant and often overlooked challenge in managing prostate cancer is cultural reluctance. Many patients delay seeking care due to embarrassment or denial, particularly Asian men, who may be more reserved about discussing health issues. Doctors often find that families bring in patients who have ignored symptoms for years. Prof Tan says: 'Addressing this cultural barrier requires greater public awareness, normalising conversations around men's health, and encouraging routine screening and early intervention.' Beyond individual awareness, family involvement plays a critical role in detecting early symptoms of prostate cancer and preventing critical outcomes. 'If children notice their father is frequently going to the toilet, they might realise something is amiss and encourage him to seek medical help,' he suggests. Treatment for prostate cancer depends on what stage the tumour is at. — Photos: Canva Precision treatment According to consultant clinical oncologist Dr Nik Muhd Aslan Abdullah, treatment for prostate cancer has come a long way since the 1990s. While surgery, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy remain standard options, recent advances in precision medicine have led to more targeted, effective treatments. Choosing the most appropriate treatment depends on several factors, including: > The stage of the cancer > The patient's age > Personal preferences > Underlying health conditions that may make certain treatments, such as surgery, unsuitable. 'In the past, our precision treatment options were quite limited. 'But today, we are guided by clearer staging and more accurate tools,' he says. Dr Nik outlines the four key stages that influence treatment strategy: > Stage 1: The tumour is confined to the prostate and involves no more than half of the gland. > Stage 2: The tumour remains within the prostate but is more advanced. > Stage 3: The tumour has grown beyond the prostate and may have reached nearby structures such as the seminal vesicles, rectum or bladder. > Stage 4: The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or distant parts of the body, such as the bones. 'To determine the stage, we typically rely on three approaches: physical examination, blood tests, particularly for prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and imaging. 'Conventional imaging includes computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and bone scans,' he explains. However, these methods have their limitations. Dr Nik adds: 'They may miss early tumours or small areas of spread, and while blood tests are helpful, they cannot show the precise location of the cancer.' Sharper detection with PSMA PET-CT A key development is PSMA PET-CT imaging – a powerful diagnostic tool that combines positron emission tomography (PET) with CT to detect prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a protein found on most prostate cancer cells. 'About 80% of prostate cancer cells have a protein called PSMA on their surface,' explains Sunway University consultant nuclear medicine physician Associate Prof Dr Tan Teik Hin. 'We use this to both detect and treat cancer. The approach is simple: we treat what we see, and we see what we treat.' PSMA PET-CT works like a GPS for cancer cells. The CT maps the body's structure, while the PET scan lights up areas where PSMA-positive cancer cells are present. It can detect tumours as small as 0.3cm, far smaller than what conventional scans typically reveal. In an April 2020 ProPSMA study published in The Lancet , researchers found that this method was 27% more accurate than traditional imaging, often leading to significant changes in treatment planning. What is radioligand therapy or RLT? Once PSMA-positive cancer cells are identified, patients may be eligible for RLT. This treatment uses a radioactive compound that binds specifically to PSMA on cancer cells, delivering a precise dose of radiation directly to the tumour while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. Assoc Prof Teik Hin says: 'It's like sending a guided missile to destroy only the cancer cells. 'RLT is not entirely new. A similar concept – using radioactive iodine to treat thyroid cancer – has been in use for over 80 years. 'What's new is applying the same principle to prostate cancer using more advanced, highly specific radiotracers.' After treatment, a follow-up scan (SPECT-CT, a hybrid imaging technique that combines Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography and CT) is conducted to confirm that the radioligand successfully reached and treated the target. From left: Assoc Prof Teik Hin, Prof Tan and Dr Nik were the three medical professionals who led the roundtable discussion on RLT. — Handout Fewer side effects One of the greatest advantages of RLT is its specificity. Because the therapy targets only cancerous cells, it causes fewer side effects compared to systemic treatments like chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Most patients tolerate it well, with mild side effects such as dry mouth, fatigue or nausea. More importantly, studies show that RLT can help delay disease progression, reduce symptoms like pain, and improve quality of life, especially for men with advanced or castration-resistant prostate cancer. While RLT is currently used mainly for patients with stage 4 prostate cancer who no longer respond to other treatments, ongoing clinical trials are exploring its use at earlier stages. PSMA PET-CT is also being studied for its ability to guide biopsies and detect cancer even before a formal diagnosis is made. 'Compared to systemic hormone therapy, which affects the entire body and can cause fatigue and mood changes, RLT offers a more targeted approach with fewer disruptions to daily life. 'We see a marked improvement in quality of life, and patients report less pain, more energy, and better sleep after the therapy,' says Assoc Prof Teik Hin. The treatment is available at government facilities such as the National Cancer Institute (IKN) in Putrajaya and Hospital Kuala Lumpur, as well as at several private hospitals. The cost of RLT varies depending on the hospital, the number of treatment cycles, and individual response to the treatment. As there is no fixed price, patients are encouraged to consult their medical team to discuss affordability and explore available financial support options. The three experts were discussing 'Size Matters in Prostate Cancer: Experts Highlight Advances to Close Critical Gaps in Care,' in a media roundtable held recently at a private hospital in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
The Star
2 days ago
- The Star
Study: Covid-19 has affected our brains
The strain on people's lives during the pandemic such as weeks of isolation and uncertainty surrounding the crisis may have aged people's brains, researchers believe. — dpa The Covid-19 pandemic was 'detrimental' to brain health, even among people who never caught the infection, a new study reveals. Academics suggest the strain on people's lives – from isolation for weeks on end to the uncertainty surrounding the crisis – may have aged the brains of society. They found that brain ageing during the pandemic was 'more pronounced' among men, older people and people from deprived backgrounds. Brain ageing models were trained on more than 15,000 healthy people. These were then applied to almost 1,000 people taking part in the UK Biobank study – a long-term study tracking the health of middle and older aged adults. Half of the group had brain scans before the pandemic while the others had brain scans before and after the global crisis. After looking at the scans, academics said that the pandemic 'significantly' accelerated brain ageing. This was assessed by their brain age, as determined by the scans, compared with their actual age. The research team found that, on average, the scans taken after people had lived through the crisis had a '5.5-month higher deviation of brain age gap'. 'We found that the Covid-19 pandemic was detrimental to brain health and induced accelerated brain ageing. regardless of SARS-CoV-2 infection,' the experts from the University of Nottingham wrote in the journal Nature Communications . Dr Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad, who led the study, said: 'What surprised me most was that even people who hadn't had Covid showed significant increases in brain ageing rates. 'It really shows how much the experience of the pandemic itself, everything from isolation to uncertainty, may have affected our brain health.' The research team also examined whether having Covid-19 affected someone's cognitive performance by examining the results of tests taken at the time of the scans. They found that people who were infected with the virus appeared to perform more poorly on cognitive tests when they were assessed again after the pandemic. Dr Dorothee Auer, professor of neuroimaging and senior author on the study, added: 'This study reminds us that brain health is shaped not only by illness, but by our everyday environment. 'The pandemic put a strain on people's lives, especially those already facing disadvantage. 'We can't yet test whether the changes we saw will reverse, but it's certainly possible, and that's an encouraging thought.' – PA Media/dpa
The Star
4 days ago
- The Star
Creative financing key to sustaining national healthcare, says Dzulkefly
PETALING JAYA: Bold, creative financing reforms are the only way forward to heal the deep cracks in Malaysia's healthcare system unmasked by the Covid-19 pandemic, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic). Unveiling plans for public-private collaboration under a government-linked investment company (GLIC) model, he warned that health security must be treated with the same urgency as national defence. Dzulkefly said this yesterday at the launch of a book titled Crisis and Community: Covid-19 in Malaysia at Gerakbudaya here. On the concerns that the Health Ministry's Rakan KKM initiative is a form of healthcare privatisation, Dzulkefly said he will not reveal details but noted it was created due to budgetary allocation limits, national debt, and GDP ratios that restrict spending. He said health security must be dealt with 'the same urgency we defend our borders'. 'That means sustained investment in our healthcare workforce. 'I am introducing a game-changing initiative where public facilities collaborate with private sector specialists, likely under a GLIC model. 'The idea is to generate revenue through elective services (non-emergency), possibly in specialised private wings within public hospitals. 'Funds generated would cross-subsidise public health services and infrastructure,' said Dzulkefly. 'We want to retain our specialists, reduce the bleeding, and invest back into public facilities. 'I can't keep asking for more budget, so I'm unlocking value through reforms,' said Dzulkefly. He also said the Covid-19 had shown that the healthcare system has inadequate social safety nets for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and the mentally ill. 'Future crisis governance must be targeted, empathetic, data-informed and inclusive. 'We must design interventions that are community-driven and flexible, not one-size-fits-all,' said Dzulkefly. At the forum, consultant paediatrician and child disability activist Datuk Dr Amar-Singh HSS said that Covid-19 has revealed the fragility of our institutional services. 'During the height of the pandemic, we experienced desperate cries for help to find an ICU bed for their family members. 'The support for carers was weak, and equipment and resources were limited even in non-pandemic times, stretched thin. 'Some doctors placed their children with grandparents and did not see them for months,' said Dr Amar. He said that there must be better preparation for the next pandemic by placing greater emphasis on building our institutional services, especially health, education and social services. He also urged making indoor air more clean, as he said most indoor air is filled with 'airborne diseases'. Ampang Hospital paediatrician Dr Tan Hui Siu narrated how medical officers and healthcare workers trudged the pandemic and had to make do with what they had as frontliners. Virologist and policy analyst Dr Lyana Khairuddin called for better education on the vaccine naysayers as well as more investments be made into vaccine research and development.
