Just as the world begins to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a new virus called human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is emerging. HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms similar to other respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold, RSV, and pneumonia. Read below to learn more
What is human metapneumovirus?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said “Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Wider use of molecular diagnostic testing has increased the identification and awareness of HMPV as an important cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections.”
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes mild to severe illness in all ages. Although common in young children, this virus also affects older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
The CDC mentioned that there has been an increase in HMPV cases and the cause is still unknown. The proportion of HMPV positive cases increased to a high of 19.6% for Antigen testing and 10.9% for PCR testing.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC also mentions that in the US, outbreaks of HMPV typically occur in the late fall, spring, and winter and subside in the summer like any flu or common cold.
What causes human Metapneumovirus?
HMPV can be spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Below are the causes of Metapneumovirus spread in humans:
- Respiratory droplets: HMPV is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can enter the mouths of people nearby.
- Contact with contaminated surfaces: HMPV can also be spread by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
The incubation period of HMPV is 3-7 days. This means it will take 3-7 days for symptoms to appear if a person has been exposed to the virus.
There are some cases where HMPV infection can lead to serious problems such as pneumonia or bronchitis. CDC statement “Clinical symptoms of HMPV infection can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections.”
What are the symptoms of human Metapneumovirus?
Symptoms of this infection can vary from person to person depending on their age and overall health. However, these are common symptoms of HMPV:
Upper respiratory problems: HMPV often presents with common cold-like symptoms including runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and cough.
Cough: Cough may be persistent and may get worse over time.
Fever: Many people infected with HMPV have a fever, although not everyone experiences this symptom.
Difficulty breathing: Viruses can cause difficulty breathing, especially in infants, young children, and the elderly.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy is common with respiratory infections, including HMPV.
Muscle pain: Some people infected with HMPV may experience muscle pain or body aches.
It is essential to know that these symptoms can be similar to those of other respiratory viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
The National Library of Medicine mentioned that “Adult patients infected with HMPV may be asymptomatic or may have symptoms ranging from mild RTI to severe pneumonia.
“Most patients have symptoms of cough, nasal congestion and difficulty breathing. Purulent cough, wheezing, sore throat, fever, pneumonia, bronchitis, conjunctivitis, and otitis media are other symptoms reported. Describe HMPV infection in immunocompetent adults presenting as a mononucleosis-like disease.
“Adults infected with HMPV are less likely to have a fever than adults infected with RSV or influenza. Additionally, adults infected with HMPV are more likely to experience wheezing than adults infected with RSV or influenza. Mistake et al. showed that this mainly occurs in the elderly (>65 years old).
“Older patients also have more difficulty breathing than younger people. Young people infected with HMPV have more hoarseness. In frail elderly patients, patients with pulmonary or cardiovascular disease, and immunocompromised patients, infections can be severe.”
In summary, Human Metapneumovirus is a common respiratory virus that can cause a variety of symptoms and may go away on its own. To stay safe from this virus, the CDC recommends following basic hygiene tips such as washing hands frequently and maintaining appropriate distance from people who are sick.
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Source: pagasa.edu.vn