By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 27: Sarawak Governor (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has urged Sarawakians to remain vigilant against the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), emphasising the importance of public health awareness and preventive measures.
In his Chinese New Year message, he highlighted that although HMPV cases are not as widespread as other diseases, the virus serves as a reminder of the need for individual and collective efforts to maintain public health.
“Let us prioritise our health and that of our families by adhering to guidelines issued by the authorities to prevent the spread of this disease,” he said.
According to the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in people of all ages, especially among young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
It is spread from an infected person to others, such as through secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact (touching or shaking hands), and touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
On a broader note, Wan Junaidi addressed the rising cost of living, which has caused concern among many households.
He commended the Sarawak government’s efforts, particularly the RM460 million Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance Contribution (SKAS) program, which has benefitted approximately 800,000 recipients.
“This initiative not only eases the burden of the people’s cost of living but also reflects the Sarawak government’s efforts to ensure that the welfare and well-being of the people remain a priority.
“It must not only be continued but also enhanced by taking more effective measures to ensure the well-being of the people is safeguarded,” he added. – DayakDaily
