The HMPV virus which is starting to spread throughout the world does not present any danger and no case has been detected in Tunisia to date, indicates Riadh Daghfous, director general of the National Pharmacovigilance Center, contrary to reports. information relayed on social networks.
The HMPV virus is an old respiratory virus that appeared in Europe in 2001, and which is spreading markedly at the start of 2025 in China. The erroneous information published on social networks, accompanied by old photos and videos relating to the spread of this virus, has led to the exaggeration of the situation at a time when the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet issued no alert on this subject, specifies Doctor Riadh Daghfous.
The HMPV virus, which mainly attacks children and affects the respiratory tract, belongs to the family of viruses that cause inflammation of the bronchioles.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It is often responsible for upper respiratory infections, but can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, or worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
HMPV infections are more common in winter and early spring. Most people get HMPV before the age of 5. It is possible to contract this virus again, but symptoms are usually mild after the first infection.
Like any seasonal virus, antiviral treatment must be offered if HMPV is affected, in addition to preventive measures to follow to avoid contamination, recommended Riadh Daghfous.
For its part, the Ministry of Health claims to closely monitor the epidemiological situation at the national and international level, in permanent coordination with the World Health Organization (WHO). The ministry specifies that the situation is under control, emphasizing that it has a response plan to any possible epidemic and that all measures will be taken if necessary.
In its press release, the Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of annual vaccination and compliance with recommended preventive measures, citing, in particular, infants and seniors and people suffering from chronic illnesses.
-The ministry calls on citizens not to trust rumors and to seek information only from the department.
Dr Riadh Daghfous indicates that experts have not thought of developing a vaccine against this virus which spreads particularly in winter like all seasonal viruses.
According to updated national and international data, the viruses currently circulating are known and not worrying. The WHO for its part has not alerted or warned against this virus.
Tekiano
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