Important Facts:
● Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most vulnerable to complications from hMPV infection.
● hPMV spreads from an infected person to another person through close contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
● hMPV typically causes symptoms resembling a common cold, which usually last around 2-5 days and resolve on their own. These symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
● The majority of children infected with hMPV are 5 years old or younger. Among these children, a small percentage (5-16%) may develop lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia.
{getToc} $title={Table of Contents} $count={Boolean}
What Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that belongs to the family of pneumoviridae, the same group as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
HMPV typically leads to upper respiratory infections, but it can occasionally cause lower respiratory infections such as pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or worsen chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These infections are most common during winter and early spring.
How Common Is HMPV?
Most people get HMPV before the age of 5. While it's possible to get HMPV again, subsequent infections usually cause mild symptoms.
However, HMPV can be more severe in infants under 6 months, adults over 65, or individuals with weakened immune systems.
Is human metapneumovirus just a cold?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) usually causes cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to severe illness.
The first time you get HMPV, you’re more likely to experience severe symptoms, which is why young children are at a higher risk.
After the initial infection, your body develops some immunity, making future infections more likely to cause mild, cold-like symptoms.
However, adults over 65, individuals with respiratory conditions, and those with weakened immune systems are also at risk of experiencing severe symptoms.
Is human metapneumovirus the same as RSV?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are not the same, but they share similarities. Both belong to the same genus and can cause comparable symptoms. Severe illness from HMPV is most common in children aged 6 to 12 months, while RSV is more likely to cause severe cases in infants under 6 months old.
Is HMPV like Covid-19? How worried should we be?
Concerns about a Covid-19-style pandemic are exaggerated, experts say, emphasizing that pandemics typically stem from new pathogens, which is not the case with HMPV.
HMPV has been present worldwide for decades, meaning most people have some level of immunity from prior exposure, explains Dr. Hsu.
“Nearly every child will experience at least one HMPV infection by the age of five and will likely have multiple reinfections throughout life,” notes Paul Hunter, a medical professor at the University of East Anglia in England.
“Overall, I see no evidence of a more serious global issue at this time,” he adds.
However, Dr. Hsu recommends taking basic precautions, such as wearing masks in crowded areas, avoiding large gatherings if at higher risk of severe illness from respiratory viruses, practicing good hand hygiene, and getting the flu vaccine.
Is HMPV contagious?
Human metapneumovirus, like any virus, is contagious, meaning it can spread through contact with an infected person. It is also seasonal, with a higher likelihood of occurrence in the U.S. during winter and early spring, coinciding with flu season.
How Does Human Metapneumovirus Spread?
The virus primarily spreads through close contact with an infected individual. You may be exposed to the virus in the following ways:
● Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
● Touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after handling infected surfaces.
● Coming into contact with droplets from an infected person due to sneezing, coughing, or spitting.
● Engaging in close physical contact, such as handshakes or touching.
Once human metapneumovirus enters your body, it has an incubation period of three to six days. This is the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms.
Who Is at Risk?
HMPV can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness, including:
● Children under 5 years old, particularly premature infants, and adults over 65.
● Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV, cancer, autoimmune disorders, or immunosuppressive medications.
● People with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
HMPV symptoms
Most HMPV symptoms are mild. They can include:
● Coughing
● Nasal congestion
● Runny nose
● Fever
● Sore throat
● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
When to See Your Doctor
hMPV symptoms typically resolve within two to five days, but in some cases, they may worsen and lead to serious health complications. Adults with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems may develop a severe middle ear infection caused by human metapneumovirus. If your symptoms persist for more than two weeks or become severe, consult your doctor.
Testing and diagnosing of HPMV
Healthcare providers typically diagnose HMPV by evaluating your symptoms and medical history. They may use a soft-tipped swab to collect a sample from your nose or throat, which is then tested in a lab for viruses and other infections. However, you’re unlikely to be tested for HMPV unless you have severe symptoms.
If you or your child experiences severe symptoms, your doctor might perform a bronchoscopy. This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera through your throat to collect a fluid sample for testing the virus.
Management and Treatment of HMPV
There is currently no specific treatment or cure for human metapneumovirus, and no antiviral medications are available to treat it. Most symptoms are mild and tend to resolve on their own with supportive care to help manage discomfort as you recover.
Here are some ways to ease your symptoms:
● Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, pain, and coughing.
● Decongestants can relieve nasal congestion or a runny nose.
● Inhalers may assist with breathing issues such as wheezing or persistent coughing.
● Corticosteroid nasal sprays can reduce nasal inflammation and alleviate pressure.
In severe cases, hospitalization might be necessary, especially if you or your child experience serious illness. In a hospital setting, healthcare providers can closely monitor your condition and provide treatments such as:
● Oxygen therapy: Administering oxygen through a nasal tube or face mask to aid breathing.
● IV fluids: Delivering fluids directly into your vein to maintain hydration.
● Corticosteroids: Reducing inflammation and alleviating certain symptoms.
These interventions can help manage severe cases and prevent further complications.
Do you need antibiotics for human metapneumovirus?
No, antibiotics are effective only against bacteria. Since HMPV is caused by a virus, antibiotics cannot eliminate it. However, in some cases, individuals with HMPV-related pneumonia may also develop a bacterial infection (a secondary infection). If your healthcare provider prescribes antibiotics, it will be to address any secondary bacterial infections.
How to prevent human metapneumovirus infection?
1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow, not your hands, when sneezing or coughing.
3. Stay away from others when you or they are unwell with colds or other contagious illnesses.
4. Wear a mask if you’re sick and unable to avoid close contact with others.
5. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
6. Refrain from sharing food, drinks, or utensils like forks, spoons, and cups.
What are the complications of HMPV?
HMPV can occasionally lead to complications, some of which may be severe enough to require hospitalization. These complications include:
● Bronchiolitis
● Bronchitis
● Pneumonia
● Exacerbations of asthma or COPD
● Ear infections (otitis media)
Outlook / Prognosis of HMPV
Mild cases of human metapneumovirus usually last a few days to a week. If you’re very sick, it’ll probably take longer to feel better. You might also have lingering symptoms, like a cough, that take longer to go away.
How do I take care of myself?
You can treat mild, cold-like symptoms of HMPV at home by:
● Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
● Using over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as pain relievers, decongestants, and cough suppressants, to alleviate symptoms.
● Consulting a pediatrician before giving any medication to children, as some medications safe for adults may not be suitable for kids.
