EODY has issued an announcement concerning the human metapneumovirus cases identified in Thessaloniki.

In the announcement, the Organization highlights that this virus is not new to the country and notes that the virus’s circulation was high in the community in February 2024, peaking in early April, and significantly decreased by late June 2024.

Additionally, it aligns with updates from the WHO and ECDC, which state that the surge in respiratory infections in both China and the Northern Hemisphere in general is considered normal for the winter season.

Specifically, the EODY announcement states:

**”Recently, information has emerged regarding an increase in respiratory infections in China. According to yesterday’s update from the World Health Organization (WHO) and today’s update from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the levels of acute respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China, based on data from previous years, remain within the expected range for this season, and no unusual outbreaks or clusters have been reported. At present, according to available information, influenza virus type A remains the most commonly detected pathogen in individuals with respiratory infection symptoms in China. Moreover, no emergency measures have been activated to address respiratory infections.

In our country, a positive sample for human metapneumovirus (using the specialized rapid diagnostic method FilmArray) has been confirmed, awaiting final confirmation from the Microbiology Laboratory, Medical School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (National Influenza Reference Center for Northern Greece). The patient reported contact with a relative who had recently traveled to China. The results of the epidemiological investigation thus far do not suggest a connection between this case and the cases observed in China. Furthermore, comprehensive laboratory testing by the Reference Center is underway, as is standard for all respiratory viruses.

It is important to note that human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is not a new virus for our country, and the above case, even if confirmed, will not be the ‘first case’ in Greece. Based on the available data to date, there is no cause for concern for the population.

According to EODY data, the virus’s circulation was high in the community in February 2024, peaking in early April, and significantly decreasing by late June 2024. Currently, the virus’s circulation remains very low.

EODY systematically monitors hMPV along with other respiratory pathogens in patients visiting 15 hospitals nationwide.

EODY remains vigilant in monitoring and managing the seasonal surge in respiratory infections.

The importance of adhering to basic preventive measures and hygiene rules to prevent the transmission of respiratory infections is emphasized:

• In the presence of respiratory infection symptoms, the use of a mask is recommended.
• In the presence of respiratory infection symptoms, it is recommended to avoid contact with individuals belonging to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, individuals with chronic conditions, and immunosuppressed individuals.
• Frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the face with hands are recommended.

Prevention remains the most effective way to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

Finally, individuals belonging to vulnerable population groups are advised to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms.”**