Don’t Panic: Healthcare Expert Assures Metapneumovirus is Not New
Reports of a Spike in Metapneumovirus Infections Dismissed as Exaggeration
There have been reports circulating in several countries regarding a surge in metapneumovirus infections, with some even claiming that it is more dangerous than COVID-19. But how true are these claims? What exactly is metapneumovirus, and what are its symptoms? Kun.uz reached out to Rustamjon Ikromov, Head of the Department at the Sanitary Epidemiological Committee, to shed light on the situation.
In a recent interview with Kun.uz, Rustamjon Ikromov addressed the increasing reports on social media about the spread of metapneumovirus in countries like China and Kazakhstan. He emphasized that the information being circulated is exaggerated and baseless, as metapneumovirus is not a new virus.
According to the expert, metapneumovirus was first identified in the 1960s and the recent reports of its increase are based on laboratory surveillance data from each country. Official reports from China and Kazakhstan state that the virus is on the rise due to an increase in acute respiratory infections, but it is not considered more dangerous than COVID-19.
Ikromov explained that metapneumovirus, like other acute respiratory infections, can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sneezing, bronchitis, and pneumonia. The virus spreads through airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces.
In Uzbekistan, measures have been outlined to address the rise in acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) and guidelines have been issued for preventive measures. The medical staff in Uzbekistan is well-prepared to handle such cases, with dedicated hospitals organized for treating ARVI patients during peak periods.
While metapneumovirus cases have been detected in Uzbekistan, they account for only a portion of confirmed cases, with other respiratory infections such as rhinovirus being more common. Treatment for metapneumovirus focuses on managing symptoms like cough, fever, and inflammation, as there are no specific medications targeting the virus itself.
It was noted that children under 14, individuals with weak immune systems, those with underlying conditions, and the elderly are more susceptible to severe effects of the virus. However, Ikromov clarified that metapneumovirus is not considered a virus that could lead to a pandemic.
Preventive measures recommended include maintaining personal hygiene, using antiseptics for cleaning surfaces and hands, wearing medical masks, and isolating infected individuals to avoid crowded places.
In conclusion, while there has been an increase in metapneumovirus infections in some countries, it is crucial to rely on accurate information and take necessary precautions without succumbing to panic or misinformation.
