Rightways to Success

Wednesday, 8 January 2025

Exclusive: HMPV 'not a new virus'; China's respiratory infection within usual range, says WHO

The headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland. File Photo:Xinhu

As respiratory diseases enter a peak period in winter, multiple foreign media outlets have been exaggerating reports of a surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, claiming that it has overwhelmed local hospitals. Commenting on the matter, the World Health Organization (WHO) told the Global Times exclusively on Wednesday that Hmpv is not a new virus, but a common one which usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold.

China's reported levels of respiratory infections are within the usual range for the winter season. Authorities report that hospital utilization is currently lower than this time last year, and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered, the WHO said.

In recent days, foreign media including CNN, BBC, and the Washington Post have reported a spike in HMPV cases in China, alleging that it has overwhelmed hospitals, with some attempting to draw parallels to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to media inquiry on the seasonal spike, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that the Chinese government has and will continue to release information about infectious diseases in a timely and transparent way in accordance with law.

The WHO also responded to the concerns, noting that based on what has been reported by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) and meetings between WHO and Chinese authorities, there has been a rise in the number of common respiratory infections in the country, as expected during winter.

The organization assured that China has a sentinel surveillance system for influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infections. According to China CDC data, the pathogens causing these infections are known ones, and they include the seasonal influenza virus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), HMPV, and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).

Among the pathogens reported by China CDC, seasonal influenza is by far the most common and is increasing. WHO's Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) has registered rising trends in influenza in the Northern Hemisphere, where it is currently winter, across parts of Asia, Europe, Africa and a few countries in the Caribbean.

Regarding HMPV, the WHO said the virus is first discovered in 2001 - it is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring, usually causing respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold. In some cases, it can lead to more severe diseases like bronchitis or pneumonia. The youngest and the oldest are most at risk, along with those who are immunocompromised, that is, those who have weakened immune systems.

The positivity rate for influenza viruses is continuously rising, with more than 99 percent being influenza A, predominantly the A(H1N1) pdm09 subtype, according to the latest data from the China CDC. Traditional Chinese medicine methods are among the approaches recommended for flu prevention, said an expert at a press conference held by the National Health Commission on Sunday.

The level of influenza activity varies across regions, with a more noticeable rise in northern provinces, although it remains lower than the same period last year, showed the latest data released by China CDC for the week from December 23 to 29, 2024.

"Over the past two years, awareness of HMPV infections in China has grown despite the virus being first identified more than 20 years ago, and has been circulating among people for as long as 60 years. The increase of awareness is primarily due to the improvement in our country's respiratory pathogen detection capabilities and the increased public attention toward respiratory infectious diseases," Li Tongzeng, the chief physician of the infection department at Beijing You'an Hospital, told the Global Times.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, nucleic acid testing technology for respiratory pathogens has been significantly promoted in China, and many medical institutions can now conduct such tests, leading to an increase in detection rates for HMPV as well as other pathogens, Li said.

The expert added that another significant advancement in China regarding respiratory infections post-pandemic has been the establishment of a large number of sentinel hospitals to monitor respiratory pathogens.

"As a result, we are now able to see regular updates from the China CDC on the types of respiratory pathogens circulating. Additionally, drug stockpiles have significantly improved over the past two years," Li noted.

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HMPV not new emerging virus, residents advised to take precautions

Infections of another respiratory virus – human metapneumovirus (HMPV) – has spiked in the US during spring, drawing ...

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Tuesday, 7 January 2025

New Year resolutions for your mental health, Health resolutions: Setting realistic goals for the New Year

A New Year resolution to help your mental health could be to practise compassion, whether towards others by forgiving and forgetting their mistakes, or towards yourself by forgiving your own slip-ups and moving von by learning from them. — 123rf

New Year resolutions for your mental health

As we step into 2025, the buzz around resolutions intensifies.

People reflect on the past year, celebrate their achievements and set ambitious goals for the future.

These resolutions often revolve around physical fitness, career aspirations or financial stability.

However, New Year resolutions can be stressful to stick to.

They can create an internal struggle between what we think we should do and what we really want to do.

Therefore, it is better to take a practical approach by giving space to think about what we want to change to feel better and not create unrealistic goals.

New Year resolutions themselves can significantly impact mental health, both positively and negatively.

On one hand, setting achievable goals can provide direction, boost self-esteem and foster a sense of purpose.

On the other hand, overly ambitious or vague resolutions may lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure when they are unmet.

The key lies in understanding the balance between aspiration and realism.

For many Malaysians, mental health issues have become increasingly relevant.

The stress of modern life, compounded by the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, has led to a significant rise in anxiety, depression and burnout.

By framing resolutions around mental health, individuals can prioritise self-care and resilience-building in 2025.

Mental health-friendly resolutions

Creating resolutions that enhance mental health does not require grand gestures.

Small, intentional steps can have a profound impact on your overall well-being, e.g.:

> Sleep

Sleep is often sacrificed in the hustle and bustle of life, but its impact on mental health cannot be overstated.

Poor sleep is linked to anxiety, depression and reduced cognitive functioning.

Resolve to establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation.

Techniques such as limiting screen time before bed can enhance the quality of your rest.

> Gratitude and forgiveness

Gratitude is a powerful tool for mental well-being.

Studies show that individuals who regularly express gratitude experience increased happiness and reduced stress.

End each day by thinking about things you are thankful for that day.

Over time, this simple habit can shift your focus from challenges to blessings.

Similarly, forgiveness plays a crucial role in mental health.

Holding onto grudges, which are persistent feelings of ill will or resentment, can lead to stress, anger, and even physical health issues.

Resolve to practise forgiveness, whether forgiving yourself for past mistakes or others for their shortcomings.

Letting go can free up emotional space for growth and peace.

Recent events in our country highlight the importance of balancing accountability with compassion to safeguard emotional well-being.

Publicly shaming individuals for their forgivable lapses in life is not good for their mental health.

Justice must always be tempered with mercy, fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.

> Connect with loved ones

Loneliness and social isolation are significant contributors to poor mental health.

Resolve to nurture your relationships. Schedule regular meet-ups with friends, call family members or join community groups.

Genuine human connections are invaluable for emotional resilience.

> Limit social media usage

While social media can be a tool for connection, excessive use often leads to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

Resolve to set boundaries, such as limiting screen time or taking regular digital detoxes, which are periods of time during which a person refrains from using electronic devices.

Instead, engage in offline activities that bring joy and fulfilment.

Obsession with political news creates a steady stream of negative input into our senses.

Undoubtedly, we all want to remain aware of what is going on in our country and the world, but if the news feed becomes overwhelming, it is better to turn away or reduce the watching to a bare minimum.

We should focus on issues within our sphere of influence or areas of interest.

For example, we can keep our elected representatives on their toes by communicating with them on a specific issue that concerns us, rather than being distracted by their lifestyle or social media presence.

> Engage in physical activity

Exercise is not just about physical fitness; it is a proven mood booster.

Physical activity releases endorphins, which act as natural stress relievers.

Whether you jog, dance, or even brisk walk, find an activity that you enjoy and commit to doing it regularly.

> Seek professional help when needed

A pivotal resolution could be recognising when professional support is necessary.

Mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a mental health therapist.

There is no shame in seeking empathy, care and support from a mental health professional when we have a lot on our plate and can no longer handle the stress.

This resolution could be the relief you need to navigate your mental health journey.

It is crucial not to fall into the trap of pushing ourselves too hard or too fast to fulfil the targets in our New Year’s resolutions.

Being realistic about our targets sets us up for success and empowerment in our mental health journey.

Tips for keeping resolutions

Setting resolutions is one thing; sticking to them is another.

Here are some strategies to help you stay committed:

> Be specific and realistic

Vague resolutions like “be happier” or “reduce stress” can be hard to measure.

Instead, set specific and realistic goals.

For example, replace “be happier” with “spend 30 minutes daily on a hobby”.

Achievable resolutions are more motivating and sustainable.

> Break it down

Large goals can be intimidating.

Break them into smaller, manageable steps.

For instance, if you resolve to practise mindfulness, start with five minutes a day and gradually increase the duration.

> Celebrate small wins

Recognising progress, no matter how small, can boost morale and reinforce positive behaviour.

Celebrate milestones and remind yourself of how far you have come.

> Stay accountable

Share your resolutions with a trusted friend or family member who can offer support and encouragement.

Alternatively, join a group with similar goals.

Shared accountability often leads to better outcomes.

> Practise self-compassion

It is natural to face setbacks.

Instead of being overly critical, practice self-compassion.

Acknowledge the slip-up, learn from it and get back on track without judgment.

Beyond individual goals

In Malaysia, discussions around mental health are still gaining traction, but the stigma surrounding mental illness often deters individuals from prioritising their emotional well-being.

However, the tide is slowly turning.

Public awareness campaigns and the efforts of advocacy groups are paving the way for a more open dialogue on mental health and well-being.

So, as you think about your New Year resolutions, consider how your actions can contribute to this cultural shift.

By openly prioritising mental health, you encourage others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that fosters a more compassionate society.

Beyond individual goals, consider community-focused resolutions.

Volunteer for mental health non-governmental organisations (NGOs), participate in awareness campaigns, or advocate for policies that promote access to mental health services.

Collective efforts can amplify the impact of your resolutions and benefit society at large.

In doing so, we not only enrich our own lives, but also inspire others to embark on their own journeys of well- being.

Here’s to a mentally resilient and fulfilling 2025!

Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj is a consultant psychiatrist, the Malaysian Mental Health Association president and Taylor’s University Impact Lab on Mental Health & Wellbeing director. For more information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.

New Health resolutions: Setting realistic goals for the New Year

AS the New Year gets in motion, many people take this opportunity to reflect on their health and well-being.

The promise of a fresh start inspires resolutions, but often these goals are overly ambitious or lack a clear plan. This can lead to frustration and abandonment of those resolutions. Here is how to set realistic, achievable health goals that can make a lasting impact. ◆ Start small and specific: Instead of vague

resolutions like “get healthier” or “exercise more,” focus on specific, measurable goals. For example:

Walk for 30 minutes, five days a week. Replace sugary drinks with water during weekdays.

Eat at least two servings of vegetables at lunch and dinner.

These small, actionable steps are easier to integrate into daily life and provide a sense of accomplishment.

◆ Be realistic: Set goals that align with your current lifestyle and resources. Unrealistic resolutions like “lose 10kg in a month” can lead to burnout or disappointment. Aim for gradual progress, such as losing 0.5–1 kg per week, which is more sustainable and healthier.

◆ Prioritise mental health: Good health is not just about physical fitness; mental well-being is equally important. Resolutions like practicing mindfulness, seeking therapy, or reducing screen time can significantly improve mental health. ◆ Incorporate Accountability: Share your goals with a friend, family member, or coach who can provide support and motivation. Alternatively, use apps to track progress, set reminders, and celebrate milestones.

◆ Plan for setbacks: Life happens, and setbacks are part of the process. Instead of giving up after a missed workout or an indulgent meal, refocus and continue. Flexibility and persistence are key to long-term success.

◆ Celebrate successes: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements to stay motivated. Rewards can be non-foodrelated, such as new workout gear or a relaxing spa day.

Examples of realistic health goals

Physical Health: “I will strength train twice a week to build muscle and improve metabolism.”

Nutrition: “I will reduce processed food intake by cooking at home three nights a week.”

Sleep: “I will establish a bedtime routine to get at least seven hours of sleep nightly.”

Stress Management: “I will practice 10 minutes of mindfulness daily to reduce stress.”

The key to lasting health improvements is consistency, not perfection. Focus on gradual changes, and remember that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. As you enter the New Year, set goals that inspire and empower you to become the best version of yourself—one step at a time.

Here’s to a healthier, happier you in the coming year!

Article Name:Health resolutions: Setting realistic goals for the New Year

Publication:The Manica Post

‘TCM, a beautiful calling card’: Decades on, a renowned acupuncturist and his global students promote traditional Chinese medicine worldwide

International students experience the traditional Chinese therapy in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province on November 1, 2023. Photo: VCG

Editor's Note:

Chinese President Xi Jinping often quotes an ancient saying on many diplomatic occasions: "No mountain or ocean can separate those who share the same aspirations." This powerful message underscores the undeniable force of friendship and cooperation in bridging hearts across nations, cultures, and civilizations. Inspired by President Xi's vision, people-to-people exchanges between China and the world have been flourishing.

People from diverse backgrounds and fields - united by common goals and dreams - traverse mountains and oceans to connect with each other. Through letters, face-to-face dialogues, and vibrant cultural events, they are collectively weaving a magnificent tapestry of building a community of shared future for humanity.

The Global Times presents "Intertwined Destinies, Shared Paths," a series spotlighting the touching stories written by these "friendship ambassadors." They are scholars pushing the boundaries of research, diplomats advocating for deeper cooperation on the global stage, artists igniting imaginations with their creations, and ordinary people extending heartfelt love beyond national borders driven by genuine sincerity.

Their tales illuminate the spark of cultural exchange, the driving force of technological innovation, the bountiful harvest of economic cooperation, and the enduring warmth of human connection - all contributing to a more peaceful, prosperous, and open world. This is the fourth installment of the series.

International students experience the traditional Chinese therapy in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province on November 1, 2023. Photo: VCG

Indian Ocean. Reunion Island. A knock at the door interrupts a lecture on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) taking place inside. A man in a wheelchair enters, looking at the lecturer with a pleading gaze.

"I can't move my back; I can't stand up," he said. "Can you help me?"

The lecturer, Li Zhengyu, one of China's most renowned acupuncturists and Tuina (Chinese massage therapy) experts, readily agreed. With the help of others, the patient, who had suffered an acute lumbar muscle sprain the night before, slowly lay down on a bed in the room. Li applied moderate manipulation to his back and then proceeded with acupuncture.

Li then asked the man to lie on the bed while he continued his lecture. About 20 minutes later, he returned to the bedside and removed the needles from the patient's acupoints. In front of the diverse body of students, the patient slowly stood up and ultimately walked out of the room without his wheelchair.

"It's amazing!" he said to Li before leaving, giving him a thumbs-up.

Li has heard variations of this praise numerous times from his international patients, students, and peers. As a frontline TCM doctor and a professor at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM), the 65-year-old has taught tens of thousands of overseas students and treated countless patients globally over the last 30 plus years, with his fluent English, profound knowledge, and exceptional skills in TCM.

Li is among the growing number of Chinese TCM experts who actively promote it abroad, as the international community increasingly recognizes the value of this national treasure in benefiting more people from different countries and bridging their hearts. As proactive advocates for "TCM diplomacy," they, along with their many overseas students, keep working diligently to spread TCM culture globally.

"TCM is an essence of Chinese culture," Li told the Global Times. "As a Chinese national and a practitioner of TCM, I am honored to share this Chinese treasure with the world, which also serves as a beautiful calling card for cultural exchange between China and other countries."

'Seeing is believing'

Li witnesses the gradual process of TCM's recognition by the world.

He first encountered international patients in his work was in the early 1980s, when he was working at a hospital on bustling Qinghai Road in downtown Shanghai. The hospital was an outpatient department of the Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine affiliated to SHUTCM, now one of the most renowned TCM hospitals in Shanghai and even in the country.

At that time, shortly after China had begun its reform and opening-up, Nanjing Road West was filled with a large number of overseas tourists. Li recalled that each day, there were many overseas tourists who visited his hospital, but instead of directly consulting the doctors, they usually stood by and curiously watched Li and his colleagues perform acupuncture on patients.

"During Richard Nixon's visit to China in 1972, he observed how acupuncture was used for anesthesia, so many Westerners had a preliminary impression of our acupuncture," Li told the Global Times. "But they were generally unfamiliar with TCM, and only had a rough idea of it."

As one of the staffers with the best English at the hospital, Li often acted as a translator to introduce some basic TCM concepts to international visitors. In those days, he perceived a strong interest from the outside world in TCM, but their understanding was quite limited.

In Li's memory, an increasing number of international patients came to China to study TCM starting in the early 1990s. At Yueyang Hospital, Li began to treat international patients while also teaching short-term international students. "The US, France, Germany, Israel... as the reputation of TCM grew, student groups began arriving from all over the globe," said Li. He added that, members of these groups widely varied from medical students and healthcare professionals, to individuals from other fields. Their commonality was, as Li described, being highly curious about TCM, along with a hint of skepticism.

On numerous occasions, Li dispelled their doubts about TCM through practical demonstrations. Once, there was a surgeon from a US medical delegation who suffered from a lumbar disc herniation and had a small stool strapped to his back to alleviate the pain. Li told him that Tuina could effectively relieve his discomfort. Though a bit skeptical, the surgeon agreed to give it a try.

After only 15 minutes of Tuina, the surgeon immediately told Li that his back pain had significantly improved. He expressed his amazement, saying, "Seeing is believing; TCM really works."

Global students

In the early 2000s, as the pace of TCM expansion internationally accelerated, many Chinese universities successively launched international programs in TCM, welcoming people from around the world to come and learn about TCM techniques and culture in China.

Li's SHUTCM, for instance, has various international training courses and summer school projects, and began enrolling undergraduate students in TCM (acupuncture) with courses taught entirely in English in 2012. At the institution's invitation, Li later became an English-language instructor for international students at the university. At the classes for international students, Li usually downplays the abstract and difficult theoretical concepts in TCM, and focuses more on practical, effective techniques. "Tuina and acupuncture can show results quickly in clinical practice; sometimes pain relief can be achieved in just one or two minutes," he explained.

Iranian student Farimah Shokri shared a memorable moment in Li's class during a practical session in Tuina therapy. "I recall vividly how he demonstrated a specific Tuina technique that instantly alleviated chronic muscle pain in a patient," Shokri told the Global Times. "Witnessing this firsthand reinforced my confidence in TCM's efficacy and potential."

Doctor Li Zhengyu teaches TCM theory to his student. Photo: Courtesy of Li

Apart from practical techniques, Li also highlights the traditional Chinese culture embedded in TCM, which he believes is a vibrant channel to know about the profound Chinese culture and philosophy.

Shokri feels that studying TCM has undoubtedly deepened her appreciation and understanding of traditional Chinese culture. She believes that the most compelling Chinese philosophical concept is "yin and yang" that emphasizes the balance of opposing forces in all aspects of life.

Studying TCM in Shanghai since 2020, the now 25-year-old chose to become a TCM practitioner specializing in Tuina therapy after graduation. She joined a renowned TCM clinic in Iran, where she treats conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, stress, and insomnia. "Beyond clinical practice, I have also engaged in patient education, helping individuals understand the principles of TCM and how to integrate them into their daily lives to promote holistic health and well-being," she said.

Saša Balaneskoviki is a teacher of Qigong and Taijiquan (body exercises related to China's martial arts), and a practitioner of acupuncture and Tuina in Serbia. He learned the basics of Tuina from Li when studying acupuncture in Shanghai in 2017.

In his home country, Balaneskoviki has organized dozens of visits by Chinese TCM, Qigong, and Taijiquan professors and masters, and has also held conferences, workshops, and webinars under these themes, engaging in the overseas spread of TCM and traditional Chinese culture.

"TCM is well known in Serbia," he told the Global Times.

Growing recognition

TCM had spread to 196 countries and regions around the world, with the number of people treated in TCM exceeding one-third of the world's total population, reported the Xinhua News Agency in September 2023. With the establishment of more overseas TCM centers, clinics, and collaborative programs, TCM not only benefits people globally, but also serves as a strong bridge for people-to-people exchanges between China and other countries, gaining increasing recognition and praise overseas.

Li recalled an occasion, when he traveled to a US city for preliminary preparations for a China-US cooperative hospital project. This project was initially proposed, because the US believed that the city was facing a serious opioid abuse problem, and thought TCM seems to offer a potential solution.

There, Li met a private doctor of a senior US official, who complained about the pain in his hand. Li told him that the pain-relieving effects of acupuncture and Tuina could significantly replace opioid medications. Li then treated him with the "rolling manipulation" technique and "Yizhichan-pushing manipulation" for 10 minutes, and the results were quickly noticeable: "I feel so much better!" the private doctor exclaimed.

Li himself is vigorously involved in the formulation of international standards for TCM. Since 2016, he has been invited to participate in the revisions of the operational specifications for Tuina techniques and the standards for TCM terminology initiated by the WHO.

Earlier, at an International Organization for Standardization (ISO) meeting, when faced with a suggestion from South Korean experts to translate TCM as "Han Medicine," Li turned it down. "TCM was originated and flourished in China," he said. "We can't lose the word 'China' in the translation."

Now, Li has retired from SHUTCM, but he continues to see patients at a hospital in Shanghai, treating both Chinese and foreign patients with TCM. Like sparks spreading warmth, Li and his global students are promoting TCM culture in various ways across various fields.

For decades, they have witnessed the international community's journey with TCM from unfamiliarity to familiarity, and from skepticism to acceptance. This transformation is the result of the tireless efforts of many individuals like Li, as well as the growing confidence of Chinese people in their culture.

"TCM culture is one of the most representative aspects of the Chinese culture," Li told the Global Times. "Being able to contribute to the promotion of TCM, and to share with the world the precious concepts of Chinese culture and philosophy, I always feel deeply honored."

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Chinese doctors from Beijing recently performed the world's first ultra-long-distance surgery in Lhasa, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, on a liver cancer patient in Beijing, with the help of China's communication satellite.