A new virus circulating in China has significantly increased fear among citizens. But in fact, the metapneumovirus has been discovered for decades, it is circulating in Albania and we will probably have it this season too.
“It has been circulating for many years, the possibility is not excluded, it is even impossible that it has not arrived in our country, because many studies show that this virus is present in 8 to 15% of all viruses of the season. The peculiarity is that there may be a small change in the structure studied,” explains Dritan Ulqinaku, epidemiologist at the Institute of Public Health.
Metapneumovirus, or HPMV, infection presents with symptoms of a cold.
“In 95% of cases there is a runny nose, subfebrile temperature, headache, and in 5% of cases it is transmitted to the lower respiratory tract, which can affect the bronchi and pneumonia,” explains Ulqinaku.
The epidemiologist says there is absolutely no room for panic, but like any other seasonal virus, caution must be exercised in certain risk categories.
“This virus mainly affects the upper respiratory tract, it is very pronounced before the age of 5, but above all it is a little more dangerous until the age of 1 year. People over 65 and those with immune problems should be careful,” says the epidemiologist.
As for cases of seasonal viruses and flu who have sought help from a doctor, there are now more than 12,000 people per week, with the patients mostly being children under 5 years old.
