The Ministry of Health has sounded a warning to Kenyans over a respiratory illness resembling the deadly COVID-19 and also with cases reported in China.
In a statement on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, the Ministry of Health indicated that while no cases have been reported in the country, the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus, and has been documented as a circulating pathogen contributing to respiratory illnesses in Kenya.
“The Ministry of Health is following up on reports of alleged outbreaks of a flu-like illness caused by the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV),” the Health Ministry said.
“We wish to assure the general public that HMPV is not a new virus, and has been documented as a circulating pathogen contributing to respiratory illnesses in Kenya.”
The Ministry also remarked that its public health surveillance system was on high alert and that so far there was no indication of a rise in respiratory-related illnesses in the country.
Urges vigilance
However, the Ministry urged vigilance on the part of Kenyans, even as the disease cases were reported in China, causing a major panic in various countries around the world.
“The Ministry remains committed to safeguarding the health and safety of all Kenyans. We request members of the public to remain vigilant, and continue observing public health practices such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette as promoted through the Epuka Uchafu Afya Nyumbani initiative,” the Ministry noted.
“Any unusual cases of severe respiratory illness are advised to seek medical assistance from the nearest health facility as soon as possible. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. For inquiries, please call 719.”
HMPV virus outbreak
While HMPV has been around and is not a new virus as the Ministry of Health avers, it was first discovered in the Netherlands in 2001 and spreads more often during cold weather.
The disease raised eyebrows after local health authorities in Northern China reported widespread cases, especially among children and urged for more hygiene.
China has also pushed back on reports online that the disease has overwhelmed local hospitals in the country.
“Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday, January 3, 2025.
“The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year.”
While HMPV is a flu-like illness, in severe cases, it could lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, and it affects very young children, the elderly and those with weak immune systems.
