What Is Human Metapneumovirus? Learn More

“A new virus outbreak in China is wreaking havoc”- When I first read this headline last week, my first response was to check the date of publication. To my surprise, it was not 2020. Surprised and afraid, I read on. It looks like there has been another outbreak in China of another virus, and the country's healthcare system is struggling to deal with it. Not good signs, right?

Well, we have the advantage of experience this time around, and to minimise oversight, I’d tell you everything about what the virus is and what you can do to deal with it. Let’s get talking!

The Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that will give you symptoms exactly like a common cold. Human metapneumovirus symptoms include some coughing and wheezing, as well as a runny nose and a sore throat. Usually, being infected by this virus doesn’t mean much. However, small children, adults over 65 and people whose immune systems have been compromised are at a higher risk of falling seriously ill. The W.H.O. hasn’t declared this virus an emergency just yet, but in all seriousness, start taking precautions.

This virus belongs to the pneumoviridae family. It can often cause upper respiratory infections but can also cause lower respiratory infections, such as asthma flare-ups and pneumonia, or make Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more likely to occur in the winter and in early spring. HMPV infects most people before they turn five. You can get HMPV again, but after your first infection, symptoms aren’t usually that severe.

Is HMPV Just a Common Cold?

HMPV infection causes symptoms like a common cold; however, it can affect some people really severely. The first time you get HMPV, you may suffer, which could be why small children have a greater risk for serious illness. After your first infection, you get some protection, so if you have HMPV again, it’ll be like the common cold. Adults who are older than 65 years or those who have breathing issues or a compromised immune system might also show severe symptoms.

According to researchers, around 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are because of HMPV. Most are mild cases. However, a small segment, around 5% to 16% of children, will be infected by a lower respiratory tract infection such as pneumonia.

Don’t mistake HMPV for RSV or (respiratory syncytial virus). HMPV is part of the same genus or scientific grouping as RSV. The maximum age for falling really sick from HMPV is between six and twelve months. However, RSV is more likely to cause severe illness in infants that are younger than six months.

1. Cough. 2. Fever. 3. Runny or stuffy nose. 4. Sore throat. 5. Wheezing. 6. Shortness of breath (dyspnea). 7. Rash.

What causes a Human Metapneumovirus infection?

HMPV is caused by a virus, a tiny germ that utilises your cells to make multiple copies of itself. It belongs to the same group of viruses that are responsible for RSV, mumps and measles.

How Is This Virus Transmitted?

If you have HPV and you touch someone who isn’t sick, then they can contract the virus. Common methods of spreading include -

1. Coughing and sneezing. 2. Shaking hands, kissing or hugging. 3. Touching things like car doors, phones, clothes or utensils.

Who can get HMPV?

Anyone can contract HMPV; however, you are at a higher risk of falling severely ill if you are younger than five, or older than 65, or your immune system is compromised or if you have asthma or COPD.

What are the complications of the HMPV?

At certain times, HMPV can cause complications. These could be serious and may warrant hospitalisation. They are:

1. Bronchiolitis 2. Bronchitis 3. Pneumonia 4. Asthma or COPD flare-ups. 5. Ear infection (otitis media)

HMPV Diagnostic Test

A doctor will usually diagnose HMPV according to your health history and symptoms. You may have to give a sample from your nose or throat. A lab might test that sample for viruses or other infections. You won’t be tested for HMPV unless symptoms are serious. A doctor might also carry out a bronchoscopy or chest X-rays to look for alterations in the airways of your lungs.

Seeing as there are no antiviral medications that are available to treat HMPV, all you can do is manage your symptoms at home until you feel better. If you or your offspring are really ill, you might require hospitalisation, where your condition can be monitored, and further sickness can be prevented. Other options include-

1. Oxygen therapy if you are having a tough time breathing. 2. IV fluids to ensure that you are hydrated. 3. Corticosteroids bring down inflammation and bring some semblance of relief.

Also, as of now, no HMPV vaccine is available.

Bring back your old habits, people. It should’ve been second nature by now, but we’ll list them again. NB: You don’t have to stock up on toilet paper.

1. Keep your hands clean. 2. When you sneeze or cough, cover your nose and mouth. 3. Stay away from sick people. 4. Wear a mask. 5. Don’t share food with others.

How long does this infection last in your body?

HMPV, in its mildest form, might last a couple of days to a week. However, if you are severely sick, it will take longer. Some symptoms might linger and take longer to subside.

Since it infects your lungs, do not take it lightly. Consult a doctor as soon as you can.

In conclusion, if you are afflicted by this virus, drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration, and take OTC over-the-counter medications such as decongestants and pain relievers to help with symptoms. Before you administer pharmaceutical drugs to kids, ask their doctor first.

However, if you or your child has respiratory infection symptoms and an underlying condition that places them or you at risk for severe illness, if the symptoms don’t improve in a few days, or if your child has a fever that runs longer than three days, visit a doctor.