A new virus that is circulating in China has significantly increased the fear among citizens. But in fact, the metapneumovirus has been discovered for decades, it has been circulating in Albania and we probably have it this season as well.

“It has been circulating for many years, the possibility is not excluded, it is even impossible that it did not come to our country, because in numerous studies it shows that this virus is in 8-15% of all viruses of the season. The special thing is that there may be a small change in the structure which is being studied”, says Dritan Ulqinaku, epidemiologist, Institute of Public Health.

Infection with the metapneumovirus, or HPMV, presents with the symptoms of a common cold.

“In 95% of cases there is a runny nose, subfebrile temperature, headache, and in 5% it is transmitted to the lower airways, which can affect the bronchi and pneumonia”, says Ulqinaku.

The epidemiologist says that there is absolutely no place for panic, but like any other seasonal virus, care must be taken in certain risk categories.

“This virus mainly affects the upper respiratory tract, it is very pronounced at the age of under 5 years, but mainly it is a little more dangerous at the age of up to 1 year. People over 65 and those with immune problems should be careful,” says the epidemiologist.

As for the cases of seasonal viruses and flu that have sought help from the doctor, there are now more than 12 thousand people per week, the patients are mostly children up to 5 years old.