In this RIA Novosti article, we talk about what metapneumovirus is, who is most susceptible to the disease, and whether there is a real danger of an epidemic.
On January 5, 2025, the Chinese National Disease Control and Prevention Administration reported an outbreak of metapneumovirus, raising concerns that the virus from China could also infect Russians.
What is metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV or HMPV) was first isolated taiwan mobile database more than 20 years ago: this happened in the Netherlands in 2001. However, later studies showed that the virus has been circulating in our population since at least the mid-1950s and is widespread throughout almost the entire Earth. In our country, it manifests itself all year round, with a periodic increase in activity in the autumn-winter season. Also, the frequency of infection with the virus often increases in late spring.
The symptoms of metapneumovirus are similar to those of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections, so the presence of metapneumovirus can only be diagnosed using an express test at a district clinic - this test is usually done using a swab from the nose and oropharynx.
How is metapneumovirus transmitted?
According to doctors, the main route of infection is airborne, but it is possible to catch the virus when using household items (dishes, towels) shared with a sick person. The greatest risk of infection occurs when in a closed room with a large crowd of people.