hMPV – Everything you need to know

hMPV is a virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms and spreads through respiratory droplets, coughing, sneezing, and contaminated surfaces.

Transmission

• Human metapneumovirus - Spread through respiratory droplets, coughing, and sneezing. Can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms

• Common: Cough, fever, wheezing, shortness of breath, runny nose.
• Severe cases can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, especially in children or immunocompromised individuals.

Incubation Period

• Typically 4 to 6 days.

Prevention

• No specific vaccine; prevention through hygiene (hand washing, wearing masks) and avoiding close contact.

Risk Groups

• Severe cases more common in children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Global Impact

• Causes seasonal outbreaks affecting both children and adults, but typically less widespread than COVID-19.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis based on symptoms and medical history.
• RT-PCR tests detect the virus in respiratory samples (e.g., nasal swabs).
• Chest X-rays or CT scans may be used for severe cases like pneumonia.

Treatment

• No specific antiviral treatment.
• Supportive care to alleviate symptoms, such as fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) and oxygen therapy for severe cases.
• Bronchodilators for wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Most cases resolve within one to two weeks without hospitalization, though vulnerable groups may require more intensive care.
  
  

General dos and don'ts for preventing HMPV:

Do’s ✅

✅Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces.

✅Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

✅Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and smartphones, especially during flu and cold seasons.

✅Avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially individuals showing symptoms of respiratory infections.

✅Wear a mask if you are in close contact with others, especially in crowded or healthcare settings.

✅Stay home when sick to avoid spreading the virus to others, particularly if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness.

✅Maintain a healthy immune system by eating well, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

✅Encourage vaccination for other respiratory illnesses like the flu or COVID-19, as they can prevent additional strain on your immune system.

Don’ts ❌

❌Don’t touch your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, without washing your hands first.

❌Don’t share personal items, such as towels, utensils, or cups, with sick individuals.

❌Don’t neglect cleaning shared objects like toys or electronic devices.

❌Don’t ignore symptoms of a respiratory infection; seek medical advice if you experience severe symptoms, especially in vulnerable individuals (young children, elderly, immunocompromised).

❌Don’t expose vulnerable people (such as the elderly or infants) to sick individuals or crowded places during peak illness seasons.