Azerbaijan's Ministry of Health issues recommendations on preventing metapneumovirus infection

The Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan has issued recommendations for preventing metapneumovirus infection amid an unstable epidemiological situation in China, Kazakhstan, and Russia.

According to Report, the ministry noted that metapneumovirus is a seasonal respiratory disease that manifests with symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, shortness of breath, and hoarseness.

"Young children and people with weakened immune systems are in the risk group. The infection usually resolves within 7-10 days, but patients with chronic respiratory diseases may develop complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia," the ministry stated.

The Ministry of Health recommends that vulnerable groups wear medical masks in crowded places, maintain hand hygiene, and include vitamin-rich foods in their diet. People with respiratory symptoms are advised to stay home and receive symptomatic treatment. Those in risk groups are also recommended to get vaccinated against influenza.

"To monitor the epidemiological situation in the country, molecular studies are being conducted to identify circulating virus strains," the ministry added.