“13 cases of dangerous metapneumovirus were recorded in Ukraine: who is at risk In Ukraine, 13 cases of infection with human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which affects the respiratory tract, were detected. Experts associate the reactivation of the virus with the COVID-19 pandemic and the weakening of immunity after lockdowns.”, — write on: unn.ua
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This virus, discovered back in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and is a close relative of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
According to the Center for Public Health, 13 confirmed cases of infection have been registered in Ukraine since the beginning of the season, although the real number may be higher. Infection occurs by droplet, and the incubation period lasts from 3 to 6 days. The disease can be both mild and severe, sometimes leading to the development of fulminant respiratory failure, especially in people with weakened immunity.
Experts believe that the COVID-19 pandemic affected a change in the immune landscape, which contributed to the activation of new viruses, in particular the metapneumovirus. After prolonged lockdowns and restrictions, our tolerance to a wide range of infections has weakened, leading to outbreaks of diseases such as RSV and HMPV.
To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with sick people, ventilating the premises and following general hygiene rules. If symptoms of respiratory illness develop, especially among at-risk groups, doctors recommend testing for HMPV and other respiratory infections, such as influenza and COVID-19.
Special attention should be paid to people who are in the risk group, and the disease should be diagnosed in a timely manner. In particular, doctors recommend measuring the level of blood saturation with a pulse oximeter in order to detect signs of respiratory failure in a timely manner.
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