Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a widespread virus that can lead to colds; however, those diagnosed with it have original pneumonia. Though the Flu is usually not very serious, it becomes a dangerous and even fatal virus in vulnerable populations, including young children, older people, and immuno-compromised persons. Such hype has been triggered by recent media reports of enhanced activity of HMPV in this Asian country, making the concerned and other parts of the world question this frequently neglected virus. The information available in this article is designed to help the reader know everything that one would want to know about HMPV, including its symptoms, causes, diagnostic methods, treatments, prevention, and so on.
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What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
HMPV is a virus in the family Pneumoviridae and is quite similar to the respiratory syncytial virus. It was first reported in the year 2001 and accounts for about a third of all cases of acute respiratory infections globally. HMPV targets the respiratory tract, and its symptoms range from URIs that present with symptoms of the Flu to LRI manifesting as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The disease is transmitted through saliva and mucous and spreads by coughing and sneezing, as well as through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects.
Symptoms of HMPV Infection
HMPV is essentially a respiratory infection that is asymptomatic or very similar to the common cold or Flu. These can include:
Cough: In some cases, it is a chronic cough, and sometimes, it is a whistling cough.
Fever: It may be present but may be mild or unnoticed in growing children, particularly younger children.
Runny or stuffy nose: Another manifestation of the disease is nasal congestion.
Sore throat: Discomfort in the throat.
Wheezing: A whistling sound that one makes when breathing is a sign of a narrowed airway.
Shortness of breath: breathlessness.
Headache: Pain or pressure in the head.
Muscle aches: General body aches and pains.
Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak.
In severe cases, particularly in infants and young children, HMPV can lead to:
Bronchiolitis: It is the inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. Acute bronchitis is ( Duques & Stevens, 2001).
Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs’ alveoli:
Ear infections: Mild inflammation of the middle ear.
Treatment of HMPV
At the moment, no antiviral agents directed at HMPV are available. Medical management entails supportive care, where an effort is made to reduce signs and symptoms and their consequences. This includes:
Rest: Rest is essential, and this entails sufficient and proper rest as the body heals.
Hydration: Avoid activities that will make you consume less fluids in order to avoid getting dehydrated.
Over-the-counter medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, including paracetamol or non-steroidal other medicines, can help shed the fever or the Flu’s accompanying aches. They may also help to relieve the congestion that is typically associated with the common cold. Expectorants can help to control the course of the cough. This means parents should always seek the advice of a doctor before giving their children any medication.
Oxygen therapy May need to be provided for persons having shortness of breath to very severe levels.
Hospitalization: In the worst cases, such as when the child is less than five years old or has a weak immune system, the infant may be admitted and might need to be given antibiotics, IV fluids, and oxygen.
Antibiotics: They are less effective against HMPV as a virus. They may be if a secondary bacterial infection occurs; for example, bacterial pneumonia may require the use of antibiotics.
Prevention of HMPV
Preventing HMPV infection relies on similar measures used in order to avoid other respiratory viruses:
Frequent handwashing: Avoid shaking hands and clean with cleanser, especially after coughing or touching crowded objects.
Lung hygiene: Cough or sneeze into a tissue, if one is available; otherwise, use the crook of your elbow.
Avoid close contact: Do not get close to sickness-ridden people or places.
Surface disinfection: Clean high-contact surfaces on a daily basis.
Vaccination: At present, no vaccine is known to prevent the occurrence of HMPV.
Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is HMPV a new virus?
A: No, HMPV was newly identified in 2001. The recent emergence in China is not a new virus but a flare-up of a previous virus that was already prevalent.
Q: Is HMPV related to COVID-19?
A: However, HMPV and SARS-CoV-2, which cause COVID-19, are different viruses originating from two other families. However, both can cause respiratory illness, and the manifestations may be similar; thus, distinctions need to be made.
