• Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a contagious respiratory virus that can lead to severe health complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
• It can spread easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, and also through contact with contaminated surfaces. While it is common during colder months, the virus can affect people year-round, causing seasonal outbreaks.
HMPV Symptoms
Symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:
Cough.
Fever.
Runny or stuffy nose.
Sore throat.
Wheezing.
Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
Rash.
The symptoms of HMPV can range from mild cold-like signs to more severe respiratory issues. In mild cases, individuals may experience fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, and body aches.
However, the virus can progress to more serious conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and difficulty breathing.
Shortness of breath and wheezing are key indicators of severe infection.
Hypoxia, a condition characterised by low blood oxygen levels, is a serious complication that can lead to further health problems.
In children, HMPV may cause more acute symptoms, including fast or laboured breathing, irritability, and difficulty feeding. In elderly patients or those with pre-existing health conditions, the risk of pneumonia and severe respiratory distress is higher, potentially leading to hospitalisation
Diagnosis and Tests
How is human metapneumovirus diagnosed?
Healthcare providers usually diagnose HMPV based on your symptoms and health history. They might use a soft-tipped stick (swab) to get a sample from your nose or throat. A lab tests the sample for viruses and other infections. Keep in mind that you probably won’t be tested for HMPV unless you have serious symptoms.
Sometimes, your provider may also do a bronchoscopy or chest X-rays to look for changes in the airways of your lungs.
Management and Treatment
How is human metapneumovirus treated?
There aren’t any antiviral medications that treat human metapneumovirus. Most people can manage their symptoms at home until they feel better.
If you or your child are severely ill, you might need to be admitted to the hospital. There, healthcare providers can monitor your condition and help prevent you from getting sicker. They might treat you with:
Oxygen therapy. If you’re having a hard time breathing, a provider may give you extra oxygen through a tube in your nose or mask on your face.
IV fluids. Fluids delivered directly to your vein (IV) can keep you hydrated.
Corticosteroids. Steroids can reduce inflammation and might ease some of your symptoms.
Do you need antibiotics for human metapneumovirus?
No. Antibiotics only treat bacteria. Since HMPV is a virus, antibiotics won’t get rid of it. Sometimes people who get pneumonia from HMPV also get a bacterial infection at the same time (secondary infection). If your provider prescribes antibiotics, it would be to treat any secondary infections.
How to Prevent the Spread of HMPV?
You can reduce your risk of getting HMPV and other infectious diseases by:
Washing your hands often with soap and water. If you aren’t able to use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your nose and mouth — with your elbow, not your bare hand — when you sneeze or cough.
Avoid being around other people when you or they are sick with a cold or other contagious diseases.
Consider wearing a mask if you’re sick and can’t avoid being around others.
Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth.
Don’t share food or eating utensils (forks, spoons, cups) with others.
While there is no specific vaccine for HMPV, staying current on vaccinations for other respiratory illnesses like the flu and COVID-19 can reduce the burden on the immune system and lower the risk of complications.
What's your take?
🗣️
Leave a comment below!
Read more
China's Official 2025 Holiday Calendar
Must-See Touristic Attractions in Chengdu
Cheap Chengdu: Free or Thrifty Things to Do
How to Find What you're Looking for in Chengdu
