Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Here are some key points about HMPV:
Symptoms: HMPV typically causes symptoms similar to the common cold, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and sometimes shortness of breath. In more severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, or even ear infections. Symptoms are generally more severe in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Spread: The virus spreads through close contact with an infected person via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, direct contact like shaking hands or kissing, or through touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
Seasonality: HMPV infections are seasonal, with peaks typically occurring in late winter and early spring in temperate climates, similar to RSV and influenza. However, it can be detected year-round.
Risk Groups: While anyone can get HMPV, it poses a higher risk to:
- Children under 5 years old, particularly infants.
- Older adults, especially those over 65.
- Individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.
Treatment: There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management typically involves supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms like fever and congestion. In severe cases, hospitalization might be necessary for conditions like pneumonia or for those with underlying health issues.
Prevention: Preventive measures include regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, not touching your face with unwashed hands, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Wearing masks can also be effective, especially during outbreaks.
HMPV has been noted in recent outbreaks, particularly in China, where it has contributed to a rise in respiratory infections among children, though the exact scale of the increase is not fully clear. Globally, HMPV is recognized as a significant cause of respiratory illness, but there’s no current indication of it leading to a new widespread health crisis similar to the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Please remember, the information on outbreaks can change, and it’s wise to follow updates from health authorities for the most current advice and data.
Author: Rasel Ahmed, Graduate Research Assistant at Multimedia University.
Sources : https://x.com/home
