A new metapneumovirus is spreading across Ukraine: truth and myths about the new Russian propaganda

The enemy continues to wage an information war in Ukraine, spreading all sorts of fakes. This time, it is about an allegedly particularly dangerous virus that affects the Armed Forces of Ukraine the most.

According to Vox Ukraine, in January 2025, Russian propaganda continued to use intimidation as a tool of information warfare.

This time, they spread fakes about an allegedly new and dangerous metapneumovirus, which, according to them, threatens the Ukrainian military due to "weakened immunity and difficult conditions." In fact, this virus is not new, and its health impact is greatly exaggerated.

The metapneumovirus was identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, although it has been circulating among humans for over 60 years. The virus is common on all continents and causes illnesses similar to the common cold or mild cases of influenza. Every epidemic season in Ukraine, isolated cases of infection are recorded, and this season is no exception. According to official data, as of January 12, 2025, 15 cases were registered, which is even less than in the previous epidemic season. No fatalities have been recorded.

The enemy's Telegram channels are trying to sow panic, claiming that the virus is deadly and is spreading massively among the military. However, the World Health Organization and Chinese medical institutions have not reported any outbreaks or emergencies. In China, where there was indeed an increase in cases, the infection rate has already begun to decline.

Metapneumovirus is transmitted by airborne droplets and is not particularly dangerous. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are at risk. Following basic hygiene rules will help reduce the risk of infection.

Russian propaganda deliberately inflates minor cases to destabilize Ukrainian society. However, the situation remains under control, and there is no threat of a large-scale spread of the virus.

Recently, propagandists have also spread false information about the "successes" of the Russian army in Mykolaiv. They claimed that on October 15, 2024, Russia allegedly carried out a precision strike on the location where the so-called "NATO mercenaries" were located. In fact, the Russian missile attack harmed civilians and damaged several civilian infrastructure facilities in the city.

The analysis of media content in the South of Ukraine revealed that the quality of publications was mediocre on average. The main topics were TCC activities, mobilization, energy supply and weather conditions. Some regional telegram channels also recorded pro-Russian content. The most discussed topics included war, criminal events, community issues and emergencies.

Анна Бальчінос