Thirteen cases of a new virus from China have been reported in Ukraine. Here’s how to protect yourself.

This was announced by the honored doctor of Ukraine, Olga Golubovskaya.

According to her, the metapneumovirus can cause upper and lower respiratory tract diseases in individuals of any age, particularly among young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Currently, according to the Center for Public Health, there have been 13 officially confirmed cases in Ukraine since the beginning of the season, and “certainly, the real number is higher,” the doctor emphasized.

As Golubovskaya pointed out, transmission occurs through respiratory droplets, and the illness is usually mild (runny nose, cough), “but it can be severe, leading to fulminant (rapidly progressing) respiratory failure. This latter scenario has previously been observed in patients with compromised immune systems, following lung transplants, etc.”

The estimated incubation period is from 3 to 6 days, and the average duration of the illness can vary depending on severity, averaging 7-10 days. HMPV is most active in temperate climates during late winter and spring, the doctor noted.

She urged not to panic and emphasized that “in the case of respiratory illness, especially in at-risk groups, it is advisable to confirm the diagnosis. Among all ARVI, the dangerous ones were influenza and COVID-19; now testing should also include metapneumovirus, especially in hospitalized patients.”

As Golubovskaya mentioned, infection prevention consists of avoiding/reducing the risks of airborne transmission (limiting contact with individuals with respiratory illnesses, especially at-risk groups, handwashing, ventilating rooms, and wet cleaning).

Additionally, she recommended monitoring one’s health, diagnosing any conditions promptly, and taking vitamins, particularly vitamin D (as prescribed by a doctor).

Golubovskaya urged doctors not to delay hospitalization if a patient is progressing daily.

As reported, a recent outbreak of a new virus - HMPV - was recorded in China. Some scientists believe it could be more dangerous than COVID-19. This virus has also been detected in Kazakhstan.

Earlier, the Ministry of Health reported that over 12 million Ukrainians ignored recommendations to complete their COVID-19 vaccination course.

It is worth noting that since the beginning of the epidemic season (from October 2023) and as of January 12, there have been 122,081 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Among them, there were 595 fatalities. Specifically, four children under the age of 17 died with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

For all the latest updates and information, check our Telegram channel, along with bonuses and quick news.