IKShPK comes up with guidelines for the prevention of MetaPneumovirus
The National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (IKSHPK) has given instructions regarding the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), after a possible increase in cases in some regions.
IKShPK in cooperation with the Office of the World Health Organization in Kosovo has shared basic information with citizens in order to be informed and increase preventive care measures.
According to the IKSHPK hMPV is more likely to spread from the infected person to others through: Drops during coughing and sneezing, close personal contact, such as kissing, touching or shaking hands, touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes.
While the IKSHPK says symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing.
“Most cases of hMPV are mild, with symptoms similar to the common cold. Respiratory pathogens, including seasonal influenza, RSV and hMPV, can pose risks to the most susceptible people, including young children, the immunocompromised and the elderly," it added.
The full announcement of IKShPK:
Although the world's top health authorities have not declared the situation related to human MetaPneumovirus a global health emergency, health authorities everywhere have strengthened infectious disease surveillance systems and increased vigilance.
In this regard, the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, in cooperation with the WHO Office in Kosovo, shares some of the basic information related to the metapneumovirus for the citizens in order for the public to be informed and to increase preventive care measures.
Basic information on human metapneumovirus (hMPV)
(Until January 05, 2025)
Is there a new epidemic in China?
The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention publishes weekly reports on the monitoring of influenza-like illnesses. It is reported that, as expected for this time of year (winter in the Northern Hemisphere), there are monthly increases in acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus. The reported level of flu activity compared to the same period last year is lower.
What is human metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus. It was discovered for the first time in 2001 by Dutch scientists. It is known to cause upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. hMPV follows an annual seasonal pattern like influenza and RSV, and usually peaks in winter or early spring.
How is hMPV spread?
hMPV is most likely to spread from an infected person to others through:
• Drops during coughing and sneezing;
• Close personal contact, such as kissing, touching or shaking hands;
• Touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing. Most cases of hMPV are mild, with symptoms similar to the common cold. Respiratory pathogens, including seasonal influenza, RSV, and hMPV, can pose risks to more susceptible individuals, including young children, the immunocompromised, and the elderly.
Who is at risk from hMPV?
Severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in infants, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. People with pre-existing lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema are at increased risk for more severe consequences.
How to prevent the spread of hMPV?
To prevent the spread and reduce the risks posed by respiratory pathogens, simple measures should be followed. These measures include: staying at home when you are sick, following medical advice about care, wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow, practicing regular washing hands, avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands and getting the recommended seasonal flu shots as advised by your doctor and local public health authorities.
Is there a treatment/vaccine against hMPV?
Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for hMPV and medical care is mostly symptomatic and the virus usually clears on its own. To relieve symptoms and if advised by a healthcare professional, patients can use over-the-counter herbs to control pain and fever. For patients with more severe wheezing and coughing, doctors may prescribe a temporary inhaler.