Doctor lists people at risk of severe metapneumovirus infection

Tengrinews.kz - Chief specialist in infectious diseases of the Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Professor Vladimir Chulanov, named to RIA Novosti the groups of people at risk of a severe course of metapneumovirus (hMPV).

"Children under five, adults over 65, and individuals with immunodeficiency are at risk of severe infection," said the expert.

Chulanov outlined the symptoms of hMPV infection, which include typical signs of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI): cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, shortness of breath, and hoarseness. In adults, hMPV infection typically manifests in a mild form as ARVI or asymptomatically, he noted.
Human metapneumovirus is a well-known virus that has been actively circulating in various countries for decades. Like other infections, it is particularly active during the seasonal peak of ARVI and influenza. Experts state that the virus is primarily transmitted via airborne droplets and, less commonly, through contact.
In the last week of December, a human metapneumovirus outbreak was reported in China. According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, hMPV became the second most prevalent virus after influenza, with both seeing an increase in cases compared to the previous week. In Kazakhstan, 30 cases of hMPV have been detected since early October.