Since the beginning of 2025, 13 officially confirmed cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been registered in Ukraine, although the actual number of infected people may be much higher. According to Olga Golubovska, head of the Department of Infectious Diseases at Bogomolets National Medical University. This virus, discovered in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and can cause respiratory diseases in people of all ages, especially children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
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Symptoms and transmission
Metapneumovirus is transmitted by airborne droplets. The incubation period lasts 3-6 days, and the average duration of the disease is 7-10 days. In most cases, the disease is mild with symptoms of runny nose and cough, but some patients may develop severe respiratory failure.
Causes of the outbreak
Experts attribute the increase in HMPV cases to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to changes in the immune landscape of the population. Prolonged lockdowns have reduced human contact, which has weakened local immune responses to infections. Currently, HMPV is active in temperate climates during late winter and spring.
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Diagnosis and treatment
To diagnose HMPV, doctors recommend testing, especially among high-risk groups. Although there is no specific treatment, inhaled ribavirin is used worldwide for seriously ill patients. In Ukraine, this form of the drug is not registered, and the tablet version is considered ineffective.
Recommendations for citizens
- Do not panic. If you have symptoms of a respiratory illness, consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.
- Follow the preventive measures. Avoid contact with sick people, wash your hands frequently, and ventilate the room.
- Monitor your health status. Measure blood saturation with a pulse oximeter and seek medical attention in a timely manner.
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