Ukraine records cases of metapneumovirus - a virus that causes symptoms similar to a common respiratory disease. The lack of a vaccine and specific drugs against it causes concern among citizens. However, doctors reassure: this infection is not new and usually occurs in a mild form.
An old familiar virus
As Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Serhiy Kramarev explains, the metapneumovirus accompanies humanity throughout its history. "This virus exists every year. There is nothing supernatural in it," he notes. Only last season, 13 cases of metapneumovirus were recorded in Ukraine.
The virus is dangerous for people from the risk group - children under the age of two, people over 65 and patients with chronic diseases.
The danger is lower than the flu
Compared to influenza, metapneumovirus is less aggressive and does not cause a pandemic. The lack of a vaccine is explained precisely by its low danger. As Kramarev emphasizes, the costs of developing a vaccine would exceed the costs of treating patients.
The virus causes the usual symptoms of a cold: cough, runny nose, fever. Only in the case of a serious condition or the presence of health risks, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Prevention: familiar rules
Protection against metapneumovirus is reduced to standard measures:
- Wash your hands and avoid crowds.
- Use masks if necessary, especially in the risk group.
Although masks do not guarantee complete protection, they can reduce the risk of infection by 1.5-2 times.
Should we panic?
According to the expert, the concern about metapneumovirus is overstated. "We have this infection every year, and it is not particularly dangerous, if we are not talking about people from the risk group," Kramaryov concluded.
Metapneumovirus is not a new or unusual phenomenon. Adherence to basic preventive measures and attention to the state of health will allow you to avoid the risks associated with this virus.
