The Dominican Republic’s Society of Pulmonary Medicine and Thoracic Surgery has confirmed the presence of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV) within the country. However, the president of the Society, Alfredo Matos Hoepelman, assured the public that its prevalence is low compared to other respiratory viruses, as reported in Diario Libre.
“While there have been a few cases of metapneumovirus, we’ve seen a higher number of cases involving respiratory syncytial virus and influenza,” Dr. Matos Hoepelman stated.
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms, but can increase risks or lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised people.
The pneumologist explained that to accurately detect hMPV, a comprehensive respiratory panel test is necessary. Dr. Matos acknowledged that to accurately diagnose hMPV a lab test that costs RD$12,000 to RD$15,000 needs to be ordered.
Dr. Matos Hoepelman explained that hMPV is not a new virus, having been discovered in 2001. Its presence in the environment is not cause for alarm.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in metapneumovirus cases in China, prompting concerns about respiratory infections worldwide. However, the Dominican Republic’s health officials are maintaining that the situation within the country is under control.
Read more:
Diario Libre
American Lung Association
13 January 2025