Ukraine becomes next country to register 13 methopneumovirus cases

The Centre for Public Health (CPH) of Ukraine has registered 13 cases of infection with metapneumovirus as part of the seasonal increase in acute respiratory diseases, according to the Kyiv-based infectious disease specialist Olga Holubovska.

“At the moment, according to the CPH, 13 officially confirmed cases have been registered in Ukraine since the beginning of the season,” the professor wrote on her Facebook page. according to Caliber.Az.

However, the actual number is undoubtedly higher, she added.

According to Holubovska, there are no grounds for panic, the main thing is to make a timely decision on hospitalisation in case of a severe course of the disease.

For the record, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common cause of respiratory infections, particularly during seasonal outbreaks, and is known to affect both children and adults. The professor urged the public to stay vigilant and consult healthcare providers if symptoms worsen.

HMPV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In vulnerable populations, it can lead to more severe respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia. You might cough or wheeze, have a runny nose or a sore throat. Most cases are mild, but young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for serious illness. HMPV is common — most people get it before they turn 5.

In late 2024, China experienced a notable surge in HMPV cases, particularly among children under 14. This led to overcrowded hospitals and public concern. However, health experts emphasize that HMPV is a known virus with established immunity in the population, and it does not pose the same global threat as COVID-19.

After China, the virus spread to other countries as well, several neighboring countries have reported increased incidences of the virus:

India: Two infants, a three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy, were diagnosed with HMPV in Bengaluru. Another case was reported in Ahmedabad. The Indian Union Health Ministry stated that these cases are not linked to the Chinese outbreak, emphasizing HMPV's global presence.

Malaysia: The country recorded 327 HMPV cases in 2024, an increase from 225 cases in 2023. The Malaysian Health Ministry noted that HMPV is not a new disease and is being monitored.

Kazakhstan: Health authorities reported 30 cases of HMPV, though the numbers remain lower compared to other respiratory viruses like rhinovirus and adenovirus.

Kyrgyzstan: Two cases have been reported so far.

By Khagan Isayev