Kazakhstan's health ministry has confirmed 30 cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid a surge in respiratory illnesses in Central Asia. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms, represents 1.6% of over 8,000 samples tested this season. Nearby Kyrgyzstan and China have also reported cases.
Kazakhstan's health ministry has confirmed 30 cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) as part of a broader surge in respiratory illnesses across Central Asia.
"Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) strains have been identified in Kazakhstan, along with other types of infections that actively circulate in the space during the seasonal increase in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza," the ministry announced on Sunday.
Testing revealed that HMPV cases represent 1.6% of positive results among 8,360 samples analysed since the start of the epidemic season. The country has also identified several other respiratory infections, with "680 cases of rhinovirus, 226 of adenovirus, 206 of coronavirus and 178 of parainfluenza," according to the ministry's statement.
The situation extends beyond Kazakhstan's borders, with neighbouring Kyrgyzstan's Healthcare Ministry reporting two HMPV cases in late 2024. "It turned out that this is not a new virus. People of all age groups can get infected, but symptoms are more pronounced in children under five and elderly people," Kyrgyz health officials explained.
The outbreak has drawn particular attention given recent developments in China, where hospitals have reported increased patient numbers with similar symptoms. The World Health Organization (WHO) noted that "there is a month-over-month increase of acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, RSV and Human metapneumovirus (hMPV)" in China.
HMPV, first identified in 2001, presents with flu-like symptoms including cough, fever, and nasal congestion. Kazakhstan's total respiratory illness count has surpassed two million cases since October 2024, prompting health officials to issue preventive measures.
The ministry "urges all to avoid crowded places, use sanitisers, avoid close contact with those infected, stay at home when sick and seek medical care." Meanwhile, the WHO has indicated that current year-over-year influenza activity is "lower, meaning it is less than the same period last year."
Unlike the early stages of COVID-19, experts suggest there is likely to be more herd immunity against HMPV than for a novel virus. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while emphasising that HMPV is a known pathogen that has been circulating globally for decades.
Eight OPEC+ countries meeting on Thursday will focus debates on how to convince Kazakhstan to stop exceeding its output quota and its plans to compensate for overproduction as the group steps up gradual production hikes.
Russia, the world's second-largest oil exporter, on Wednesday imposed restrictions on another major oil export route, suspending a mooring at the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk only a day after restricting loadings from a key Caspian pipeline.
Kazakhstan’s energy landscape is undergoing a major shift as President Tokayev appoints Yerlan Akkenzhenov as the new energy minister. This change comes amid the country’s push for nuclear power, marking a pivotal moment in Kazakhstan’s energy diversification strategy.
China and Kazakhstan have agreed to deepen cooperation in key areas, including trade, security, and Belt and Road projects. At a high-level meeting in Beijing, officials emphasised stronger political ties, economic collaboration, and cultural exchanges to advance their strategic partnership.
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as FIFA confirms sole bid. The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales & NI stands uncontested, marking a major milestone for women’s football. Final approval pending, but preparations for a historic event are underway.
The first-ever summit between the European Union (EU) and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - began today in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Severe storms across the southern and Midwestern US have caused "generational" flooding and tornadoes, leaving over 400,000 without power. With up to 15 inches of rain expected and more tornadoes, officials warn of catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions.
Eight OPEC+ countries meeting on Thursday will focus debates on how to convince Kazakhstan to stop exceeding its output quota and its plans to compensate for overproduction as the group steps up gradual production hikes.
During a high-level meeting, officials from Kyrgyzstan and Russia emphasized the growing economic partnership between the two nations, highlighting a 14.5% increase in mutual trade and reaffirming their commitment to further expansion.
Aid groups in Myanmar’s worst-hit areas urgently need shelter, food, and water after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 2,700 people. Rescue efforts face challenges due to ongoing civil war, damaged infrastructure, and restricted aid access, with the toll expected to rise.
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted of embezzlement, ruling her out of the 2027 presidential race. She received a four-year prison sentence, with two years suspended, and a €100,000 fine. Le Pen plans to appeal.
Apple marked its 49th anniversary by reaching a market capitalization of $3.3 trillion. Despite recent tech stock volatility, Apple's shares surged 28% in 2024.
The Armenian armed forces attempted three reconnaissance drone flights over Azerbaijan Army positions near Gerenzur, but all were successfully intercepted. Meanwhile, Armenian units repeatedly fired on Azerbaijani positions from multiple regions, escalating tensions in the area.
Rybelsus, an oral form of the GLP-1 drug semaglutide, has been discovered to provide similar cardiovascular benefits as the injectable forms of the drug.
The 19th MedExpo Kyrgyzstan 2025 has opened in Bishkek, featuring over 50 companies from 11 countries. The event serves as a key platform for medical advancements, presenting cutting-edge solutions in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology. The exhibition runs until April 3.
Australia is facing the continued emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants more than five years after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic.
From 1 June 2025, it will be illegal for businesses in the United Kingdom to sell or supply all single-use or "disposable" vapes. Only reusable vapes are allowed for sale.
A global survey by AXA and IPSOS reveals that workplace stress, anxiety, and burnout are worsening, with financial instability, job insecurity, and constant exposure to negative news among the key factors affecting mental well-being
UK set to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as FIFA confirms sole bid. The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales & NI stands uncontested, marking a major milestone for women’s football. Final approval pending, but preparations for a historic event are underway.
The first-ever summit between the European Union (EU) and the five Central Asian nations—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - began today in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Severe storms across the southern and Midwestern US have caused "generational" flooding and tornadoes, leaving over 400,000 without power. With up to 15 inches of rain expected and more tornadoes, officials warn of catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions.
Eight OPEC+ countries meeting on Thursday will focus debates on how to convince Kazakhstan to stop exceeding its output quota and its plans to compensate for overproduction as the group steps up gradual production hikes.
During a high-level meeting, officials from Kyrgyzstan and Russia emphasized the growing economic partnership between the two nations, highlighting a 14.5% increase in mutual trade and reaffirming their commitment to further expansion.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment