Thirteen cases of a new virus that emerged in China have been confirmed in Ukraine.
As reported by Ukrinform, this was announced by the esteemed doctor of Ukraine, Olga Golubovska, on Facebook.
According to her, the metapneumovirus can cause illnesses of the upper and lower respiratory tracts in individuals of any age, particularly among young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Currently, according to the Public Health Center, Ukraine has recorded 13 officially confirmed cases since the beginning of the season, and "of course, there are likely more," the doctor emphasized.
Golubovska noted that transmission occurs through respiratory droplets, and the illness is usually mild (runny nose, cough), "but it can be severe with the development of fulminant (rapidly progressing) respiratory failure. The latter has been previously observed in patients with weakened immune systems, post-lung transplantation, etc."
The estimated incubation period is from 3 to 6 days, and the average duration of the illness may vary depending on severity, averaging 7-10 days. HMPV is most active in temperate climates during late winter and spring, the doctor pointed out.
She urged people not to panic and emphasized that "in the event of a respiratory illness, especially in at-risk groups, it is advisable to confirm it. Among all ARVI, the most dangerous were influenza and COVID-19; now metapneumovirus should also be included in testing, particularly for hospitalized patients."
Golubovska stated that infection prevention involves avoiding/reducing the risks of airborne transmission (limiting contact with individuals suffering from respiratory illnesses, especially at-risk groups, hand washing, ventilating spaces, and wet cleaning).
Additionally, she advised monitoring one's health, timely diagnosing any pathology, and taking vitamins, especially D (as prescribed by a physician).
Golubovska urged doctors not to delay hospitalization if the patient is showing daily progression of symptoms.
As reported, a recent outbreak of a new virus - HMPV - was recorded in China. According to some scientists, it may be more dangerous than COVID-19. This virus has also been detected in Kazakhstan.