Is it possible to get tested for the new Chinese virus in Ukraine?

In Ukraine, there have officially been 13 confirmed cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is currently spreading rapidly across China. The virus, identified in 2001, exhibits flu-like symptoms and affects the respiratory tract.

According to Dr. Taras Zhiravetsky, at present, there are no laboratories in Ukraine capable of conducting tests for the metapneumovirus. This is due to a lack of necessary reagents.

"Diagnosis of metapneumovirus should be conducted using the PCR method. Currently, there are no laboratories in Ukraine that can perform such tests due to a lack of necessary reagents, so it is premature to speak of confirmed cases of metapneumovirus using the ELISA method to determine IgG to this virus," — Zhiravetsky wrote on social media.

He stated that he does not intend to scare anyone but simply aims to inform the public and provide "constructive facts." According to his statement, it is impossible to get tested for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Ukraine.

What is known about human metapneumovirus

HMPV causes symptoms similar to those of influenza and Covid-19: cough, fever, nasal congestion, and fatigue. The incubation period lasts from three to six days.

The illness often presents as a cold and spreads through respiratory droplets. However, in children and elderly individuals with weakened immune systems, it can lead to pneumonia.

Moreover, cases of metapneumovirus among individuals under 14 years old are showing a growing trend, particularly in northern provinces.

Some epidemiologists assert that several viruses are circulating in the country: influenza H1N1, HMPV, mycoplasma pneumonia, and COVID-19. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation as the virus spreads.

Currently, there is no vaccine for this type of virus.

Previously, "Telegraf" reported on statements from the United States regarding why Covid-19 did not appear by chance. Following a two-year investigation, it is claimed that the coronavirus, which has caused a significant number of deaths, was most likely artificially created and has a laboratory origin. Its spread occurred as a result of a leak.