Is HMPV a
serious disease?
Waht is #HMPV.? How to treat and what to do to avoid getting infected with this #virus?
Human Metapneumovirus
(#HMPV): #Symptoms & Treatment
#Human_metapneumovirus
(#HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. You might
cough or wheeze, have a runny nose or a sore throat. Most cases are mild, but
young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems are at a
higher risk for serious illness.
Human Metapneumovirus
(HMPV)
Human metapneumovirus
(HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. You might
cough or wheeze, have a runny nose or a sore throat. Most cases are mild, but
young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems are at a
higher risk for serious illness. HMPV is common — most people get it before
they turn 5
Overview
Symptoms of hMPV
include fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, sore
throat and rash.
The symptoms of human
metapneumovirus are often similar to the common cold.
What is human
metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus
(HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It
often causes upper respiratory infections, but it can sometimes cause lower
respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or make chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter
and early spring.
Most people get HMPV
before they turn 5. You can get HMPV again, but symptoms are usually mild after
your first infection.
Is human
metapneumovirus just a cold?
Human metapneumovirus
most often causes symptoms similar to a cold, but some people can get very
sick. You’re more likely to get severely sick the first time you get HMPV,
which is why young kids have a greater risk for serious illness. You get some
protection (immunity) from your first infection and then are more likely to
have mild, cold-like symptoms if you get another HMPV infection. Adults over 65
and people with breathing problems or a weakened immune system may also get
severe symptoms.
How common is human
metapneumovirus?
Researchers estimate
that about 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV.
Most cases are mild, but about 5% to 16% of children will develop a lower
respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.
Is human
metapneumovirus the same as RSV?
It’s not the same, but
human metapneumovirus is similar to RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). It’s
part of the same genus — or scientific grouping — as RSV (Pneumovirus), and can
cause similar symptoms. The peak age for severe illness from HMPV is between 6
and 12 months, but RSV is more likely to cause severe illness in infants
younger than 6 months.
Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms of HMPV
include fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, sore
throat and rash.
The symptoms of human
metapneumovirus are often similar to the common cold.
What are the symptoms
of human metapneumovirus?
Symptoms of human
metapneumovirus include:
Cough.
Fever.
Runny or stuffy nose.
Sore throat.
Wheezing.
Shortness of breath
(dyspnea).
Rash.
What causes a human
metapneumovirus infection?
A virus — a small germ
that uses your cells to make more copies of itself — causes HMPV. It’s part of
the same group of viruses that cause RSV, measles and mumps.
How is human
metapneumovirus transmitted?
HMPV spreads through
direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated
with the virus. For instance:
Coughing and sneezing.
Shaking hands, hugging
or kissing.
Touching surfaces or
objects like phones, door handles, keyboards or toys.
What are the risk
factors for human metapneumovirus?
Anyone can get HMPV,
but you’re at a higher risk for severe illness if you:
Are younger than 5
(especially premature infants) or older than 65.
Have a weakened immune
system (from conditions like HIV, cancer or autoimmune disorders, or from
medications that suppress your immune system).
Have asthma or COPD.
What are the
complications of human metapneumovirus?
Sometimes HMPV causes
complications. These might be serious and require you to be hospitalized. They
include:
Bronchiolitis.
Bronchitis.
Pneumonia.
Asthma or COPD
flare-ups.
Ear infection (otitis
media).
Diagnosis and Tests
How is human
metapneumovirus diagnosed?
Healthcare providers
usually diagnose HMPV based on your symptoms and health history. They might use
a soft-tipped stick (swab) to get a sample from your nose or throat. A lab
tests the sample for viruses and other infections. Keep in mind that you
probably won’t be tested for HMPV unless you have serious symptoms.
Management and
Treatment
How is human
metapneumovirus treated?
There aren’t any
antiviral medications that treat human metapneumovirus. Most people can manage
their symptoms at home until they feel better.
If you or your child
are severely ill, you might need to be admitted to the hospital. There,
healthcare providers can monitor your condition and help prevent you from
getting sicker. They might treat you with:
Oxygen therapy. If
you’re having a hard time breathing, a provider may give you extra oxygen
through a tube in your nose or mask on your face.
IV fluids. Fluids
delivered directly to your vein (IV) can keep you hydrated.
Corticosteroids.
Steroids can reduce inflammation and might ease some of your symptoms.
Do you need antibiotics
for human metapneumovirus?
No. Antibiotics only
treat bacteria. Since HMPV is a virus, antibiotics won’t get rid of it.
Sometimes people who get pneumonia from HMPV also get a bacterial infection at
the same time (secondary infection). If your provider prescribes antibiotics,
it would be to treat any secondary infections.
Outlook / Prognosis
How long does human
metapneumovirus last?
Mild cases of human
metapneumovirus usually last a few days to a week. If you’re very sick, it’ll
probably take longer to feel better. You might also have lingering symptoms,
like a cough, that take longer to go away.
How do I take care of
myself?
You can manage mild,
cold-like symptoms of HMPV at home by:
Drinking lots of fluids
to prevent dehydration.
Taking over-the-counter
(OTC) medications like pain relievers, decongestants and cough suppressants to
help your symptoms. Don’t give medications to kids without asking their
pediatrician first — some medications that are OK for adults aren’t safe for
kids.
When should I see my
healthcare provider?
Contact a healthcare
provider if:
You or your child has
symptoms of a respiratory infection and an underlying condition that puts you
or them at an elevated risk for severe illness.
Your symptoms or your
child’s symptoms don’t start to improve within a few days or if you or your
child has a fever lasting longer than three days.
When should I go to the
ER?
Go to the ER or seek
immediate medical attention if you or your child has symptoms of severe
illness, including:
High fever (over 103
degrees Fahrenheit /40 degrees Celsius).
Difficulty breathing.
Bluish skin, lips or
nails (cyanosis).
Worsening of other
health conditions.
What questions should I
ask my doctor?
It might be helpful to
ask your healthcare provider:
What over-the-counter
medications can I use?
How do I treat my
symptoms at home?
What severe symptoms
should I look out for?
When should I go to the
ER?
When should I follow up
with you?
How long might it take
to feel better?
Prevention
Can you prevent a human
metapneumovirus infection?
You can reduce your
risk of getting HMPV and other infectious diseases by:
Washing your hands
often with soap and water. If you aren’t able to use soap and water, use an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your nose and
mouth — with your elbow, not your bare hand — when you sneeze or cough.
Avoid being around
other people when you or they are sick with a cold or other contagious
diseases.
Consider wearing a mask
if you’re sick and can’t avoid being around others.
Avoid touching your
face, eyes, nose and mouth.
Don’t share food or
eating utensils (forks, spoons, cups) with others.
A note from Cleveland
Clinic
Human metapneumovirus
(HMPV) is a common virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. If
you’re older than 5, you’ve probably already had it at least once. Most of the
time, you’ll get better at home in a few days. But sometimes HMPV can cause
serious complications. Young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened
immune systems are at a higher risk for severe illness. Talk to your healthcare
provider if you have any concerns about HMPV. Seek medical care right away if
you or your child is having trouble breathing or if you have other signs of
serious illness.
Sometimes, your
provider may also do a bronchoscopy or chest X-rays to look for changes in the
airways of your lungs.
Human metapneumovirus
(HMPV) is a respiratory virus that is closely related to Respiratory Syncytial
Virus (RSV) and can cause mild to severe respiratory illnesses in people of all
ages. It is especially prevalent in late winter and early spring, similar to
the flu and RSV, but can circulate at lower levels throughout the year. While
most infections are mild, HMPV can lead to more serious complications like
bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, and those
with weakened immune systems.
Key Points about HMPV:
Transmission:
HMPV spreads through
respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by
touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
Symptoms:
Symptoms are often
similar to the common cold, including cough, fever, runny or blocked nose, and
sore throat. In some cases, it can cause more severe symptoms like shortness of
breath, wheezing, and in rare cases, pneumonia or bronchiolitis, particularly in
vulnerable populations.
Risk Factors:
Young children, older
adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for
severe HMPV infection.
Treatment:
There is no specific
antiviral treatment for HMPV, so treatment is generally supportive, focusing on
rest, fluids, and managing symptoms.
Prevention:
Good hygiene practices
like frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when
sick can help prevent the spread of HMPV.
HMPV, or human metapneumovirus, is a
respiratory virus that primarily affects the lungs and airways. It’s part of
the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus
(RSV), measles, and mumps viruses.
Key Facts About HMPV:
- Discovered: In 2001 by Dutch researchers.
- Symptoms: Similar to other respiratory viruses
and can include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (especially in young children)
- Transmission: Spread through:
- Respiratory droplets (coughing/sneezing)
- Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or
people
- At-Risk Groups:
- Infants and young children
- Older adults (especially over 65)
- Immunocompromised individuals
- People with underlying lung or heart disease
Severity:
Most infections are mild, but in some
people, especially vulnerable groups, HMPV can cause serious conditions like:
- Bronchiolitis
- Pneumonia
- Exacerbation of asthma or COPD
Diagnosis:
- PCR tests (often bundled with respiratory virus
panels)
- Sometimes diagnosed clinically during outbreaks
or flu season
Treatment:
- No specific antiviral treatment
- Supportive care (fluids, fever reducers, oxygen
in severe cases)
- No vaccine is currently available, though
research is ongoing
Let me know if you'd like info on how HMPV
compares to RSV, COVID-19, or the flu.
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) commonly
causes mild, cold-like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, sore throat, and
fever. More severe cases can lead to wheezing, difficulty breathing, and
pneumonia, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened
immune systems.
Common Symptoms:
Cough: A persistent cough is a frequent
symptom.
Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion and
a runny nose are also common.
Sore Throat: Sore throat can be an
associated symptom.
Fever: Fever is often present, though it
can vary in intensity.
Wheezing: This can indicate lower
respiratory tract involvement.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing
or shortness of breath can occur, especially in more severe cases.
More Severe Symptoms (Possible
Complications):
Bronchiolitis: Inflammation of the small
airways in the lungs, primarily affecting young children.
Pneumonia: Lung infection, which can be
serious, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Asthma Exacerbation: HMPV can trigger or
worsen asthma symptoms.
Respiratory Failure: In severe cases, HMPV
can lead to respiratory failure.
Important Considerations:
Incubation Period:
Symptoms typically appear 3 to 5 days after
exposure.
Contagious Period:
HMPV is contagious for about 3 to 7 days,
but some individuals may be contagious even before symptoms appear.
Severity:
While many HMPV infections are mild, some
individuals are at higher risk of severe illness.
No Specific Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for HMPV,
and most cases resolve on their own.
Diagnosis:
HMPV infection is usually diagnosed based
on symptoms and can be confirmed with a PCR test.
Part 2
Can HMPV be treated with
antibiotics?
Treating HMPV
Currently there is no antiviral medication
that can eliminate HMPV. Antibiotics cannot fight viral infections since they
are used for bacterial infections. Finding relief from the viral symptoms can
come in a few ways.
here is currently no specific antiviral
medicine or vaccine to treat human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Treatment focuses on
managing symptoms and supporting the body's natural recovery process.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
No specific antiviral treatment: HMPV, a
common respiratory virus, is usually treated with supportive care.
Symptom management: This includes
over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and
pain, decongestants for congestion, and saline sprays for nasal passages.
Rest and hydration: Getting plenty of rest
and staying hydrated are crucial for recovery.
When to seek medical attention: If symptoms
worsen or if you are at high risk (e.g., infants, the elderly,
immunocompromised), it's important to consult a healthcare professional,
according to the American Lung Association.
Ongoing research: While there isn't a
specific antiviral or vaccine yet, research is ongoing to develop new treatments,
particularly focusing on the fusion (F) protein of the virus.
There is currently no specific antiviral
medication or vaccine to treat human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Treatment focuses
on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. This includes measures like
using over-the-counter medications to relieve pain and fever, staying hydrated,
and getting plenty of rest. In severe cases, hospitalization and oxygen therapy
may be necessary.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
No Specific Antiviral Drugs: Unlike some
other respiratory viruses, there's no targeted antiviral medication
specifically for HMPV.
Symptomatic Treatment: The primary approach
is to alleviate symptoms like fever, cough, and congestion. Over-the-counter
pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen), decongestants, and cough
suppressants can be helpful.
Supportive Care: Getting plenty of rest and
staying hydrated are crucial for recovery.
When to Seek Medical Advice: If symptoms
worsen, or if you belong to a high-risk group (infants, the elderly, or
immunocompromised individuals), it's important to consult a healthcare
provider, even if symptoms are mild.
Potential Future Therapies: Research is
ongoing to explore potential antiviral treatments, with some promising avenues
including targeting the fusion (F) protein of the virus.
No Vaccine Available: Currently, there is
no vaccine to prevent HMPV infection.
Focus on Prevention: While there isn't a
specific treatment, preventative measures like hand hygiene and improving
ventilation in shared spaces can help reduce the spread of the virus
Human Metapneumovirus: What to Know
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is similar to
RSV and flu with its symptoms.
HMPV spreads often in the colder months
from person to person through close contact.
The best way to prevent HMPV from spreading
is to wash your hands, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, and stay
home if sick.
There are many respiratory viruses that
tend to circulate around schools, workplaces, and other public places,
especially during the colder months of the year.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not as
familiar as RSV or influenza, but its symptoms can still keep people down for
several days. With recent news coverage bringing more attention to the virus,
Emil Lesho, DO, is the Program Director of Healthcare Epidemiology at Rochester
Regional Health and explains how to recognize the symptoms of HMPV, different
ways to treat the virus, and how to avoid getting sick.
Symptoms of HMPV
Human metapneumovirus is in the same family
of viruses as RSV, which helps to explain why most of the symptoms caused by
the virus are similar. While HMPV can affect anyone, young children, older
adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to contract the
virus.
Some of the symptoms of HMPV include:
cough
fever
nasal congestion
shortness of breath
These symptoms are spread from person to
person through coughing or sneezing, touching or shaking hands, or coming into
contact with contaminated items or surfaces and then touching your nose, mouth,
or eyes. As symptoms worsen for some patients, the virus might progress to
becoming bronchitis or pneumonia.
“If serious coughing or congestion lasts
longer than 7-10 days, get in touch with your primary care provider or visit an
urgent care,” Dr. Lesho said. “You don’t want this to become something worse.”
Treating HMPV
Currently there is no antiviral medication
that can eliminate HMPV. Antibiotics cannot fight viral infections since they
are used for bacterial infections.
Finding relief from the viral symptoms can
come in a few ways.
Cough: Drinking warm fluids with honey and
having a humidifier in your room at night can help, along with taking a hot
shower so the steam can open your airways. Cough drops or cough syrups are also
helpful.
Nasal congestion: Saline sprays or mentholated
throat lozenges can loosen mucus, and albuterol (inhaler) can help with
breathing issues.
Fever: Taking acetaminophen can lower a
fever.
“The best thing a sick person can do is
stay home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids to get better,” Dr. Lesho said.
“Allowing the body to focus its energy on fighting the virus will help you, and
keep others from getting sick too. If possible, you should take an in-home test
for COVID-19 or the flu to make sure you don’t need Tamiflu or Paxlovid.”
Preventing HMPV
You can reduce your risk of getting HMPV or
other respiratory illnesses by:
consistently washing your hands with soap
and water for at least 20 seconds
staying away from people who are sick as
much as possible
covering your cough or sneeze
staying home when you’re sick
wear a mask if you need to go outside the
house.
Most of this disease is spread through
close contact between humans. If humans had kept their distance, they might
have been saved from this virus. The virus was detected in the Swiss city of
Bor when a friend went to the embassy of a country where initial tests showed
that the virus had been brought to Switzerland by people who had recently
arrived in that country.
Samuel
0046735501680
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