Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild to severe symptoms, especially in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised patients. It is spread through respiratory secretions and can cause flu-like symptoms, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. Treatment involves managing symptoms and preventing spread through proper hygiene.
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is one of the most common viral pathogens responsible for respiratory diseases. It belongs to a group of similar viruses that include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza virus. Human metapneumovirus can range in severity from asymptomatic to acute. Although the virus can manifest itself at any age, the populations most at risk are the very young, patients with compromised immune systems and the elderly. It often presents as severe wheezing in pediatric patients, but can also cause croup or pneumonia.
Human metapneumovirus was first identified in 2001 by researchers at the Erasmus Medical Center in the Netherlands. Led by the head of the virology department and professor of virology, Dr. Albert Osterhaus, the team of researchers found the pathogen in the cultures of 28 children, hospitalized at the time in the Erasmus Medical Center, with respiratory conditions of unknown causes. Since then other laboratories around the world have confirmed the presence of the human metapneumovirus. The widespread nature of hMPV-specific antibodies, found in human blood samples from various laboratories, suggests that the viral pathogen has been causing respiratory infections in humans for over 50 years.
Human metapneumovirus most often causes upper respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, and sore throat. Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and vomiting, can also result from hMPV. Less common conditions associated with the virus include bronchiolitis, conjunctivitis, otitis media, diarrhea and skin rashes. Human metapneumovirus infection can exacerbate symptoms in patients with asthma and can cause breathing difficulties and more severe respiratory disease in the very young, elderly, or immunocompromised. The virus can also be present without clinical manifestations.
Human metapneumovirus is most often spread through direct or close contact with the respiratory secretions of those who have been infected. The virus can also spread through contact with objects contaminated by the respiratory secretions of an infected person. Once exposed, the person may develop symptoms within three to five days. Re-infection with hMPV can occur, although symptoms tend to be milder after the initial infection. In the United States, hMPV occurs most often in late winter and early spring.
Treatment of human metapneumovirus may include medications to minimize symptoms. Fever reducers, antihistamines, and treatments to improve breathing can be especially helpful. Spread of hMPV can be prevented through proper and frequent hand washing, covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and prompt disposal of contaminated tissue.
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