There are already 13 cases of human metapneumovirus in Ukraine. Holubovska names its symptoms and how to protect yourself

Since the beginning of the season, 13 cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been officially confirmed in Ukraine.

This was written by Doctor of Medical Sciences and infectious disease specialist Olha Holubovska on Facebook.

"Currently, according to the Public Health Center (PHC), 13 officially confirmed cases have been registered in Ukraine since the beginning of the season, of course, there are actually more," she noted.

The specialist believes, that the outbreak of the virus is caused by the adaptation of microorganisms that take advantage of the changed immune landscape as a result of the 2019 coronavirus pandemic.

"Long-term mass lockdowns have also negatively affected our tolerance to infection with many widespread pathogens, we have not been in contact with each other, and immune responses begin with local protective factors. The first wave of retribution for this began the year before last with the tragic outbreak of RSV infection in the world... Thus, emergency departments in the US in the 2023-2024 season were overwhelmed with children under one year old, suffering from this disease, we have also observed its increase in the elderly. Since HMPV is the "brother" of RSV, its turn has come," wrote Holubovska, adding that experts predicted outbreaks of common respiratory diseases after the end of restrictive measures, which we are now observing.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can cause infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract in people of all ages, including young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. This was reminded by infectious disease specialist Olha Holubovska.

Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Infection occurs by droplet transmission and can recur throughout life. The disease usually has a mild course (runny nose, cough), but in some cases, especially among patients with weakened immunity or after lung transplantation, a severe course with the development of respiratory failure is possible.

The incubation period of the virus is 3-6 days, and the duration of the disease depends on its severity, on average lasting 7-10 days. HMPV is most active in temperate climates in late winter and spring.

Holubovska emphasized that in the case of respiratory disease, especially in risk groups, it is important to confirm the diagnosis. In addition to tests for influenza and COVID-19, testing for HMPV should be considered, especially for hospitalized patients.

She also reminded of the usual prevention methods: limiting contact with sick people, regular hand washing, airing rooms and wet cleaning. These measures help reduce the risk of airborne transmission.

What is metapneumovirus (hMPV)

Human metapneumovirus is a virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. It causes respiratory diseases in children and people with weakened immune systems.

Metapneumovirus has symptoms similar to influenza and COVID-19 coronavirus infection. The most common: cough, runny nose, headache, shortness of breath and fever.

As Ukrainian News Agency earlier reported, an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) was recorded in China. It causes a respiratory disease in people, the symptoms of which are similar to COVID-19 coronavirus infection and flu.

Meanwhile, in the summer of 2024, the number of cases of COVID-19 coronavirus infection in Ukraine increased almost 12 times.