Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Everything You Need to Know

The full form of HMPV is Human Metapneumovirus and it is a virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family of viruses. Just like any viral infection, HMPV infection is contagious. The transmission of the HMPV virus occurs through air during coughing, sneezing, and physical contact. Although HMPV causes mild common cold-like symptoms which resolve on their own, it can make certain people very sick too.

Duration of the HMPV infection and the gravity of its symptoms can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe, and may last from several days to weeks. Typically, healthy adults exhibit symptoms similar to those of common cold. However, infants, kids and those belonging to the old age, and/or having a weak immune system, are at a higher risk of developing serious respiratory complications, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

This virus can affect anyone. It poses greater threats to individuals in certain age categories and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Basic knowledge about prevention and protection against HMPV can help you avoid complications.

The high-risk groups susceptible to HMPV include:

• 1. Infants and children:

  Various research has found that children below 2 years of age are most vulnerable to HMPV. In addition to this, they might develop more severe conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia post-infection. Since their immune system is under development, the neonatal body has less ability to fight such attacks.

• 2. Elderlies:

  Similar to the above point, individuals aged 65 and above fall in the most vulnerable group. Due to age, their ability to fight diseases or infections is weaker. Therefore, the chances of HMPV and other severe health conditions are increased.

• 3. Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems:

  The immune system in the human body is the primary defence against external attacks of any kind of virus or infection. If it is weak, the person is automatically vulnerable to sickness. Similarly, the chances of HMPV are higher for people with weak immunity. Additionally, if a person is under heavy medications or has undergone organ transplant, the chances of getting HMPV are higher.

• 4. Individuals with Chronic Respiratory Conditions:

  Human Metapneumovirus is a disease revolving around the respiratory system. Therefore, a person with existing respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, or cystic fibrosis will have an increased danger of developing serious health complications.

• 5. Pregnant Females:

  When pregnant, one’s immune system is already compromised. If in such a situation they come in contact with HMPV, their risk of raised complications gets higher.

This is a leading paediatric pathogen, which means the young ones are more vulnerable to this virus. Kids who are below 6 months of age can catch the virus very easily. Precautionary measures if taken on time, can significantly reduce the risk factors. The following are the common risk-factors associated with HMPV:

1. Close Contact with Infected Individuals

   Since it is a contagious disease, close contact with infected person can transmit the virus very easily. It occurs when infected people cough or sneeze; the virus is transmitted through airborne droplets present in vaporous exhalations.




2. Poor Hygiene Practices

   When people come into contact with virus-contaminated surfaces and touch their face, especially mouth, nose or eyes, they risk getting infected. HMPV transmission occurs because people fail to maintain suitable hand-hygiene practices, along with improper sneezing or coughing and not properly cleaning the common contact points.




3. Seasonal Exposure

   As per the studies by WHO, HMPV mainly spreads in temperate zones, with its peak infection period ranging from late winter to early spring. That said, the virus can spread throughout the year but at lower levels, thereby affecting a large chunk of population round the year.




4. Crowded Environments

   Densely populated day-care centres and schools, as well as nursing homes and public transportation systems, raises the odds of HMPV transmission. Human contact remains frequent in such settings, thereby improving the chances of HMPV transmission.




5. Weakened Immune System

   People who receive chemotherapy treatment, as well as organ transplant patients and patients with HIV/AIDS or other chronic diseases, face elevated risks because their immune systems are already compromised and thus cannot effectively protect them from infections. Their weakened immune condition leads to more severe complications from HMPV infections.




6. Pre-existing Conditions

   If a person is already dealing with respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis, they are more prone to HMPV. Additionally, the virus can worsen their pre-existing condition(s). Health uncertainties, like those caused by infections such as HMPV, highlight the importance of staying financially protected. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers the treatment costs associated with HMPV hospitalization.

HMPV infection is primarily caused by the Human Metapneumovirus itself virus itself, which belongs to the Pneumoviridae virus-family. When it enters a person’s respiratory system, it commonly causes upper respiratory infection, also known as common cold. HMPV spreads via respiratory secretions and close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

(HMPV) Human Metapneumovirus is often difficult to detect because of its symptoms similar to those of common cold, flu, and COVID-19 etc. However, not dealing at the right time can lead to serious health conditions. The following are the complications associated with HMPV:

1. Pneumonia

One of the most common evolutions of HMPV infection is viral pneumonia. It is a lung infection which causes inflammation of the air sacs and increases breathing difficulties. It can be a dangerous illness for people of all ages. The signs of HMPV pneumonia produce the following signs:

• ● Chronic cough with phlegm
• ● High fever and chills
• ● Chest pain and shortness of breath
• ● Rapid or laboured breathing

2. Bronchiolitis

Infants and children might develop bronchiolitis due to HMPV infection. Bronchiolitis leads to blockage in the lung airways leading to inflammation and congestion. This can further lead to persistent coughing and breathlessness.

3. Worsening of Pre-Existing Respiratory Conditions

If a person is already struggling with acute health conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis, HMPV can intensify the problem. It becomes really challenging for patients with asthma due to attacks and flare-ups of chronic lung diseases. People experiencing such issues may suffer from a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) which needs immediate medical attention.

4. Secondary Bacterial Infections

HMPV virus weakens the respiratory system, leading to the development of sinusitis, ear infections (Otitis media), and bacterial pneumonia. These secondary infections often require antibiotic treatment and can result in longer recovery periods.

5. Severe Respiratory Distress and Hospitalisation

In extreme cases, HMPV virus can cause acute respiratory failure. As a result, the patient will require oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. This is more common in premature babies and elderlies with underlying conditions.

As indicated by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is the most reliable method of diagnosing HMPV infection. This test gives accurate estimates within hours. That said, if the symptoms are mild, doctors may not even suggest this test as usually the condition may resolve itself.

Other ways to diagnose and treat HMPV infection may include:

• ● Clinical evaluation by the doctor based on current symptoms and medical history of the patient.
• ● Collecting samples from nose and on top of the tongue (just like COVID-19 tests) for lab-bases analysis.
• ● Checking for antibodies in the blood via Rapid Antigen Testing.