Human Metapneumovirus: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Explained

What Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes most people to present with cold-like symptoms, which include coughing, fever, and sore throat. It affects the upper respiratory system but may become more severe in the form of pneumonia in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised persons. HMPV is extremely common, as most people get infected before five years of age. Reinfections can occur, but they are generally less severe.

HMPV: Is It Just a Common Cold? 

HMPV is often similar to a cold, but it can cause serious respiratory problems, especially during the first infection. Young children, adults over 65, and people with breathing disorders or weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Unlike the common cold, HMPV may cause complications such as asthma flare-ups or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations.

How Common Is HMPV?

HMPV is responsible for 10%–12% of respiratory illnesses in children, with around 5%–16% progressing to lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia. It is most common during winter and early spring.

Symptoms of HMPV

Common symptoms of HMPV includes cough,  fever, runny or congested nose, sore throat, wheezing or difficulty breathing and skin rash (rare)

 Causes and transmission of HMPV 

This virus HMPV,a member of the Pneumovirus genus, spreads through close contact with infected individuals (coughing, sneezing, kissing), touching contaminated surfaces like door handles or toys and sharing utensils or personal items.

Risk Factors for Severe Illness

More susceptible populations includes Infants and children that are less than 5 years old, adults who are older than 65 years and people with immunocompromised conditions or chronic respiratory disease, such as asthma or COPD.

Possible Complications

HMPV can cause the following complications in severe cases like bronchitis or bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma or COPD exacerbations and ear infections (otitis media).

Diagnosis

HMPV is mostly diagnosed by clinical presentation and history. For more serious cases, examination can be done with nasal or throat swab, chest X-ray, or bronchoscopy ( It is a process that allows the doctors to look at your lungs and air passages  by using a thin and bendable tube with a light and a camera ).

Treatment

There is no antiviral medicine for HMPV. Treatment basically revolves around the alleviation of symptoms as listed below:

At home you can drink fluids, rest, and over the counter medications (children should consult a pediatrician)

Hospital care : Hospital care is required for oxygen therapy, intravenous fluid and corticosteroid in severe cases. HMPV is a viral infection and therefore antibiotics do not work on it. Secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia, they may require antibiotics.

Prevention Tips

It is better to take prevention before this virus takes over you. Also it is said that, prevention is better than cure. Here are some orevention tips: You should wash your hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer, Use your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, avoid close contact with the sick, use masks if symptomatic and in public places, should not share utensils or drinks.

Outlook and Prognosis

Mild cases of HMPV resolve within a week, although coughs may linger on. Serious infections may take weeks to recover from and can be severe enough to be hospitalized. If the condition worsens or lasts longer than expected then one should seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

An Individual should Visit the ER if you or your child experiences symptoms like high fever (above 103°F or 40°C), difficulty in breathing or  having bluish skin, persistent or worsening symptoms and also stay informed and proactive about respiratory illnesses like HMPV to ensure timely care and recovery.