The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) outbreak in China is not new and does not pose a serious threat, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said. While cases of the virus may increase with the onset of the winter season, its fatality rate is very low, said Margaret Harris, a spokeswoman for the WHO.
What is known about metapneumovirus?
Metapneumovirus was first identified in 2001 and is part of the respiratory infections that circulate during the cold season. Symptoms of the disease caused by hMPV are similar to the common cold - cough, runny nose, sore throat. The virus can be more dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including newborns and the elderly. However, as Harris noted, the mortality rate from it is very low, and it rarely leads to serious consequences.
Situation in China
Chinese authorities have reported that hospital occupancy is currently lower than during the same period last year, and no emergencies have been declared in the country. Metapneumovirus is just one of many respiratory infections, of which seasonal flu is the most common. Harris stressed that the most attention should be paid to seasonal viruses now, because they can be more threatening.
Margaret Harris urged simple preventive measures, including wearing masks, improving indoor ventilation and frequent hand washing. She also noted that the risk from the H5N1 avian virus remains low, as it does not circulate among people and is only transmitted through contact with poultry or farm animals.
Situation in Ukraine
The Public Health Center of Ukraine reported that the situation with metapneumovirus in the country is under control. According to the latest data, 13 cases of the disease, which is milder than the flu and rarely leads to complications, have been recorded in Ukraine.
