Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Overview and Addressing Concerns

Abstract

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus similar to many other respiratory viruses, and known to cause seasonal outbreaks of acute respiratory infection (ARI), peaking in late winter to early spring. Symptoms like cough, fever, and nasal congestion are seen, similar to the common cold, and sometimes flu-like symptoms and lower respiratory infection can occur especially in very young children or those with chronic respiratory, medical or immunosuppressive conditions. However, hospitalization rates are low and long-term sequelae not seen. Most children are infected by the age of 5 years, but reinfections can occur anytime throughout life. Supportive and symptomatic care usually leads to recovery in around a week. HMPV is an old known virus and has not shown potential to become a pandemic. Therefore, it should not be looked at with the eye of the COVID experience, and all such misplaced information and fear-spreading on media should be curbed. However, the community especially the high-risk groups should always be reminded and guided of general health, hygienic and lifestyle practices that protect against respiratory infections.