The Impact of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Respiratory Health

Overview:

The HMPV virus can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts, affecting human lungs and the respiratory tract. It is a contagious lung disease that causes flu- or cold-like symptoms but can raise the risk of or cause more serious problems like bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in vulnerable groups like older people, children, and people whose immune systems aren’t strong enough to fight off infections.

The illness is related to a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and has been around since at least 2001 when it was first found in the Netherlands. Most of these cases happen when it’s cold weather.

Why is everyone talking about the HMPV virus?

Authorities in northern China say that the number of HMPV virus cases has been rising quickly, especially among children. People have been told to be careful with their health and hygiene by the country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, they have also pushed back against online claims that hospitals are overloaded and worries of another COVID-like pandemic.

There have also been reports of increased cases in Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and India. Few HMPV virus cases have been detected in India. As more people get respiratory illnesses, the central government has told the states to increase their monitoring.

What are HMPV virus symptoms?

Some of the most common signs of HMPV are cold, cough, fever, stuffy nose, fatigue, sore throat, and lack of breath, similar to the common cold. The signs of an HMPV infection are like those of other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory illnesses, and they can get worse and lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period is thought to be 3 to 6 days. The average length of the respiratory virus varies based on how bad it is, but it’s about the same as other viral respiratory infections.

How does the HMPV virus spread?

HMPV is contagious, and it spreads from an infected person to others through the following methods:

• Exposure to secretions from sneezing and coughing (respiratory droplets).
• Close contact with the infected person, such as shaking hands or touching.
• Touching infected objects or surfaces with viruses on them, then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

What is the HMPV incubation period?

The incubation period is usually 3-6 days.

How to prevent HMPV infection?

It is possible to prevent this viral infection by following the steps listed below. HMPV Prevention Tips:

• Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
• Don’t touch your mouth, nose, or eyes with unclean hands.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Use face masks.

Patients who have cold-like symptoms should follow the below-given precautions:

• Remember to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Often, wash hands correctly (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds).
• Don’t share cups and eating utensils with others.
• Avoid kissing others.
• Stay at home when sick.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Use face masks.

It is recommended that potentially contaminated surfaces (like doorknobs and shared toys) be cleaned (disinfected) to help stop the spread of HMPV.

How is HMPV disease diagnosed?

• A test called nucleic acid amplification (NAAT) can directly find the virus genome, which includes techniques like reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
• Directly finding viral antigens in respiratory secretions using immunofluorescence or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).

How is HMPV treated?

At present, there is neither a special antiviral drug to treat HMPV nor a vaccine to protect against it. Early identification can aid in symptom management and avoid complications. If symptoms get worse, getting medical care is helpful.