The WHO office in Tirana provides details on metapneumovirus, here's how it spreads and the age groups at risk

2025-01-07 13:59:16Aktualitet SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

The World Health Organization office in Tirana, as well as the WHO headquarters, have published some general information regarding metapneumovirus according to data up to January 5, 2025.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus, first discovered in 2001 by Dutch scientists.

It causes upper and lower respiratory tract illness. The virus follows a seasonal pattern, peaking in winter or early spring.

How is hMPV spread?

Droplets produced during coughing and sneezing.
Close personal contact, such as kissing, hugging, or shaking hands.
Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Main symptoms

Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Most cases are mild, with symptoms similar to the common cold.

Who is at risk?

Infants and the elderly.
People with weakened immune systems.
Individuals with lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, or emphysema.
Possible consequences
In severe cases, hMPV can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in vulnerable groups.

How do we prevent the spread of hMPV?

Stay home when you are sick.
Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the flexed elbow.
Wash your hands often with soap and water.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Follow your doctor’s advice and get recommended vaccinations.
Is there a treatment or vaccine for hMPV?
There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for hMPV. Medical care is mainly symptomatic. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms, while inhalers may be prescribed for patients with wheezing or severe cough.

Current situation in China

According to the latest report of January 2, 2025 from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the level of respiratory infections (including seasonal influenza, RSV and hMPV) is on the expected increase for the winter, but compared to last year, influenza activity is lower.

Message to citizens:

Preventing the spread of hMPV and other respiratory pathogens is possible by following basic hygiene measures and medical advice. These measures include: staying home when sick, following medical advice for care, wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow, practicing regular hand washing, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, and getting recommended seasonal flu vaccines as advised by your doctor and local public health authorities.

Take care of yourself and others!


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