Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• About Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)

• Recent stats on HMPV

• Who is at greater risk of HMPV respiratory infection?

• Causes of HMPV 

• Human Metapneumovirus symptoms

• Human Metapneumovirus Treatment

• Human metapneumovirus complications

• How can I prevent HMPV?

• How to care for yourself if you have an HMPV infection?

• Additional lifestyle tips during winter months

• What experts are saying about HMPV?

• Take Home Points

• FAQ

Introduction 

Recently, we have heard about an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus. It has become a cause of concern and people are worried about it. At this point of time, the public needs to know how to prevent the spread of this respiratory infection and reduce disease impact. The main purpose of this article is to provide you with professional-grade information regarding HMPV outbreak, Human Metapneumovirus causes, symptoms, treatment, how to prevent the transmission. You will also get to know why you need to make some simplest lifestyle changes every winter.

About Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)

This virus was discovered in 2001. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with RSV or respiratory syncytial virus. This virus can affect people of all ages and causes both upper and lower respiratory infections.

The incubation period of this virus is  3 to 6 days, and the illness duration depends on the severity of the condition. It is important to note that HMPV virus is similar to other respiratory infections caused by viruses.

This virus is most active during late winter and spring. HMPV, respiratory syncytial virus and influenza can circulate simultaneously during the respiratory virus season.

Young children, older adults and those with weak immunity are commonly affected by the HMPV virus. People with a history of COPD, asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis should take all possible precautions to protect themselves against HMPV infection.

Recent stats on HMPV

• To date, a total of 8 HMPV cases in India have been detected. 

• HMPV outbreak in China: There is an increase in cases of acute respiratory infection in China like seasonal influenza viruses, RSV and hMPV. These cases are usually expected to rise during this time of the winter.

Who is at greater risk of HMPV respiratory infection?

Certain age groups are at greater risk of HMPV infection:

• Children: Infants and young children have underdeveloped immune systems so they are more vulnerable to respiratory infections. Parents should take extra care for their children during viral infection season.

• Older adults: As we age, the immunity of our body declines. The elderly are at risk of HMPV infection due to a weakened immune system.

• Weak immunity: HIV patients and those who have undergone recent organ transplants are at greater risk of complications associated with HMPV.

• Medical history: People with a history of lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia, other respiratory diseases, heart diseases, etc are more likely to experience severe outcomes. For example, HMPV infection may exacerbate COPD and asthma.

Causes of HMPV

HMPV virus spreads from an infected person to others. Human metapneumovirus causes are:

• Coughing and sneezing

• Close contact like shaking hands or touching increases the risk of viral transmission.

• Touching virus-contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. This is the main reason why you should not touch your face with unwashed hands. Hand hygiene plays a critical role in transmitting viral infections.

• Seasonal changes also play a vital role in HMPV viral transmission. Similar to other respiratory infections, HMPV is more common during late winter and early spring.

• Weakened immune system.

• People with a history of chronic respiratory conditions.

Human Metapneumovirus symptoms

HMPV symptoms appear 3-6 days after exposure to the virus and last for 1-2 weeks.

The common HMPV symptoms are:

• Fever

• Coughing

• Nasal congestion

• Shortness of breath. 

• Wheezing 

• Tiredness 

• Clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections.

Human Metapneumovirus Treatment

HMPV treatment depends on the condition of the patient. Mild cases can be managed with medicines, rest, maintaining hydration status, etc while severe cases need hospitalisation for oxygen therapy.

This section will provide information on the diagnosis and treatment of HMPV.

• The diagnosis of this virus is made by the detection of the viral genome by NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test). Immunofluorescence or enzyme immunoassay can be used to detect viral antigens in respiratory secretions.

• There is no HMPV vaccine or no specific antiviral therapy for HMPV treatment. 

• There are no antibiotics for human metapneumovirus. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. They can target only bacterial infections.

• HMPV treatment involves supportive care, pain relievers, decongestants and cough suppressants to relieve symptoms. The treatment is carried out under expert supervision.

• The treatment for HMPV depends on the severity of the patient's condition. 

• Oxygen therapy is given if a patient has breathing difficulty

• IV fluids are given to maintain hydration.

• Corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms.

• Anti-viral medications may be given to treat human metapneumovirus

• The patient should take sufficient rest.

Human metapneumovirus complications

You should immediately go to the doctor if:

• You have symptoms of respiratory infection.

• Your child has symptoms of respiratory infection. In this case, connect with a paediatrician.

• High fever lasting longer than three days.

• Difficulty breathing.

How can I prevent HMPV?

Here are some of the tips everyone must know to prevent HMPV:

• Follow the right source of information.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20-30 seconds.

• Clean surfaces that are possibly contaminated surfaces like doorknobs, shared toys, etc.

• When you are sick, stay home and avoid coming in contact with your family members and friends. 

• Avoid coming in contact with sick individuals.

• Cover your face while coughing and sneezing.

• Do not touch your face, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

• If you have cold-like symptoms, you should not share cups and eating utensils with others.

How to care for yourself if you have an HMPV infection?

After you have consulted an expert and taking treatment, you need to know these self-care tips, the time taken for you to become free from viral infection, etc.

• The HMPV infection lasts from a few days to a week.

• It will take some time for you to feel better.

• It may take some time for lingering symptoms like cough to go away.

• Drink lots of fluids.

• Take prescribed medicines on time.

• Even if you feel better and symposium have subsided, you should consult your doctor.

• If you are feeling low, tired and dealing with low energy issues, you can discuss about taking multivitamin with your doctor. 

• To ensure proper recovery, you may consult a dietician for healthy food choices.

Additional lifestyle tips during winter months

In winter, you need to be extra cautious. It's because respiratory virus infections are more common in winter. Here is a list of some of the simplest tips everyone must follow during the winter season:

• Always carry alcohol-based sanitiser in your bag. In short, keep sanitiser handy.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Make nutritious food choices.

• Do not spit in public places.

• Avoid self-medication. A doctor knows the best for your healthcare needs.

• Dispose of paper handkerchief or facial tissue after a single use. 

• As soon as you experience sore throat or coughing properly, consult an expert.

• Online consultation is also a good option if there is any barrier that may delay consulting with an expert.

What experts are saying about HMPV?

First, don't panic. The virus is not new, it is already known, and people should exercise basic precautions. RT-PCR can detect the virus' genetic material, while antibody tests help identify past exposure. HMPV and COVID-19 are very different.

Hydration and proper nutrition are important keys. We should focus on these on priority. If you do not have a handkerchief to cover your nose or mouth while coughing or sneezing, use your arms or elbow so that you do not spread the infection. Avoid going to very crowded places.

Take Home Points

After 5 years of COVID-19, HMPV viral infection is emerging. But it is not a new virus, unlike COVID. We need to keep ourselves updated with the right information and take the possible precautions we can. Some people can get very sick while some may suffer mild illness. If you are experiencing any of the above HMPV symptoms make sure to connect to an expert for further diagnosis and treatment.