#HMPV infection

[rajuerra-blog]

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild cold-like signs to severe respiratory distress. It was first identified in 2001, making it a relatively new addition to the family of viruses known to affect humans. Despite its relatively recent discovery, HMPV has since been recognized as a significant contributor to respiratory illness worldwide, particularly in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the nature of HMPV, its symptoms, transmission, treatment, and prevention measures is essential to managing its impact on public health.

What is HMPV?

HMPV belongs to the Metapneumovirus genus, which is part of the Paramyxoviridae family. This family also includes other well-known respiratory viruses such as the measles virus, mumps virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV, however, is genetically distinct from these other pathogens and has its own set of characteristics.

The virus primarily infects the upper and lower respiratory tract and is a leading cause of respiratory infections in infants and young children. However, adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems or underlying chronic conditions, can also be affected. In fact, similar to other respiratory viruses, HMPV is known to circulate in seasonal patterns, with outbreaks often occurring in the fall and winter months, peaking around the same time as influenza and RSV infections.

Symptoms of HMPV Infection

Infection with HMPV can present with a range of symptoms, which may vary from mild to severe, depending on the individual’s age, immune status, and any underlying health conditions. In children, particularly those under five years of age, HMPV is one of the leading causes of respiratory illness, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

The symptoms of HMPV infection can include:

Upper Respiratory Symptoms:

Nasal congestion

Runny nose

Coughing

Sore throat

Lower Respiratory Symptoms:

Wheezing

Shortness of breath

Rapid breathing

Chest tightness

General Symptoms:

Fever

Fatigue

Headache

While most individuals recover from HMPV infections within a week or two, some may develop more severe respiratory complications. The elderly, infants, and those with weakened immune systems or preexisting lung diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at greater risk for developing serious illness.

Transmission of HMPV

HMPV is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes after touching surfaces that have been exposed to the virus.

Like other respiratory viruses, HMPV is highly contagious, and outbreaks are common, particularly in settings where close contact occurs, such as schools, daycares, hospitals, and nursing homes. The virus can remain viable on surfaces for several hours, making hand hygiene and disinfecting surfaces critical in preventing transmission.

Who is at Risk?

While HMPV can infect individuals of all ages, certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness or complications. These groups include:

Infants and Young Children: Infants, particularly those under one year of age, are more susceptible to severe respiratory symptoms, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia. In fact, HMPV is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in young children for respiratory illnesses.

Elderly Adults: Older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions such as COPD, asthma, or heart disease, are more likely to experience severe symptoms of HMPV infection.

Immunocompromised Individuals: Those with weakened immune systems, including individuals undergoing cancer treatments or those with conditions like HIV/AIDS, are at increased risk of more severe disease.

People with Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions are also more likely to experience complications, including exacerbations of asthma or COPD.

Diagnosis of HMPV Infection

Diagnosing HMPV infection involves assessing clinical symptoms and performing laboratory tests. Given that HMPV shares symptoms with other respiratory infections like the flu, RSV, and the common cold, a detailed medical history and clinical examination are essential for diagnosis.

Laboratory tests that may be used to confirm HMPV include:

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This test detects the virus's genetic material in respiratory samples, such as a nasal swab, throat swab, or sputum.

Immunofluorescence: This method identifies HMPV proteins in respiratory secretions.

Viral Culture: Although less commonly used due to the time it takes, this test grows the virus from a sample to confirm the presence of HMPV.

In some cases, chest X-rays or other imaging techniques may be used to assess the extent of lung involvement, particularly if pneumonia or bronchiolitis is suspected.

Treatment of HMPV

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV infection. Management is primarily supportive and focuses on alleviating symptoms. In most cases, individuals with mild illness recover with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and ease discomfort.

For more severe cases, especially in young children or high-risk adults, hospitalization may be necessary. Treatment options for hospitalized patients may include:

Oxygen therapy to help maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood.

Nebulized treatments to relieve wheezing or improve airflow in the lungs.

Intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if the individual is unable to drink enough fluids.

Mechanical ventilation in extreme cases, where patients have difficulty breathing on their own.

Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like HMPV, so they are not used unless there is a secondary bacterial infection.

Prevention of HMPV

Because there is no vaccine for HMPV, prevention relies on reducing the risk of exposure and minimizing transmission. Strategies to prevent HMPV infection include:

Good Hygiene Practices:

Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after coughing or sneezing.

Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.

Avoiding touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Respiratory Hygiene:

Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Disposing of tissues immediately and washing hands afterward.

Avoiding Close Contact with Sick Individuals:

Avoiding contact with individuals who are showing symptoms of a respiratory illness, particularly in high-risk settings such as hospitals or daycare centers.

Disinfecting Surfaces:

Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and toys in childcare settings.

Conclusion

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an important respiratory virus that can cause a range of respiratory illnesses, particularly in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available for HMPV, supportive care is effective for most patients. Prevention measures, including good hygiene, respiratory hygiene, and minimizing contact with infected individuals, remain the most effective means of reducing the spread of HMPV. As more research is conducted into the virus, we may gain a better understanding of its behavior and develop better diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies to manage its impact on global health.

[ricisidro]

KEEP CALM !

Do Not Panic ! 😌

The World Health Organization (WHO) statement on the increasing trends of acute respiratory infections (ARI), including human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the  Northern Hemisphere, January 7, 2025.

#WashHands 👏 #MaskOn 😷 #hmpvvirus 🦠

https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON550

[overdoso]

O HMPV foi descoberto em 2001 e está associado a aproximadamente 20.000 hospitalizações entre crianças menores de 5 anos nos EUA a cada ano. 🦠

[nationnow]

Doctor warned of HMPV virus impact two years ago as cases surge in China

Over a year ago, a doctor issued a stark warning about the mysterious HMPV virus. Known in full as human metapneumovirus, HMPV has been causing global concern, particularly in a world still reeling from the impact of Covid-19. Since a surge in the spring of 2023, cases of HMPV have been on the rise in China, with children and the elderly being most susceptible to infection. As of now, the…

[todayworldnews2k21]

HMPV cases rising in India: Schools heighten preventive measures; here's what parents must do at home - Times of India

Cases of the human metapneumovirus are increasing in India with 3 cases identified so far. Two infants from Bengaluru and one infant from Ahmedabad have been identified as having the HMPV infection. Children, older adults and immunocompromised individuals are at a higher risk of developing severe complications in the infection.As per a media report, Delhi Public Schools in Bengaluru and Mysuru…

[rightnewshindi]

चीन से निकल कर ब्रिटेन, अमेरिका समेत इन छह देशों में पहुंचा HMPV वायरस संक्रमण, जानें कैसे करें बचाव

HMPV Virus News: चीन में HMPV वायरस बहुत तेजी से फैल रहा है. इसके बढ़ते प्रकोप को देखते हुए चीन के कई राज्यों में इमरजेंसी घोषित कर दिया गया है. इस वायरस को कोरोना से ज्यादा खतरनाक बताया जा रहा है. चीन के कई इलाकों में हालात बिगड़ गए हैं. एक बार फिर मास्क वाला दौर फिर लौट आया है. हजारों लोग वायरस की चपेट में हैं. बुजुर्गों और बच्चों में तेजी से संक्रमण फैल रहा है. अस्पतालों के बाहर मरीजों की…

[imdnews1]

HMPV Virus : नवीन संकट की अफवा?

HMPV Virus : आजच्या घडीला चीनमध्ये ह्यूमन मेटा न्यूमोव्हायरस (एचएमपीव्ही) विषाणूच्या संभाव्य प्रादुर्भावामुळे जगभरात चिंता पसरली आहे. कोविड-19 महामारीच्या आठवणी अजूनही ताज्या असताना, या नव्या विषाणूबाबत जागतिक आरोग्य समुदाय सज्ज झाला आहे. चला या व्हायरसची माहिती, त्याचे परिणाम आणि प्रतिबंधात्मक उपाय यावर सविस्तर चर्चा करू.

[darkmaga-returns]

Understanding Pneumonia in a Post-COVID World

Pneumonia is more than just a chest infection; it’s a potential sign of deeper immune vulnerabilities. Whether it follows a bout of flu, a cold, or COVID-19, it often results from a combination of viral and bacterial factors. The initial viral infection weakens the lungs, making them susceptible to bacterial overgrowth.

In von der Leyen’s case, the timing, just after the holiday season, it raises questions about recent exposure to viruses, possibly including COVID-19. The Christmas period, with its gatherings and travel, often acts as a super-spreader event, creating fertile ground for respiratory illnesses.

The COVID-19 Connection

COVID-19 isn’t just another respiratory virus. Its unique ability to impair immune responses is what sets it apart. By targeting key immune cells like T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells, it leaves the body more vulnerable to subsequent infections. This is particularly dangerous in winter, when co-circulating viruses like influenza and HMPV (human metapneumovirus) are already taxing the immune system.

Even mild cases of COVID-19 can have profound impacts beneath the surface, disabling parts of the immune system and opening the door to secondary infections. This “immune freeze” effect, where cells are present but unable to function effectively, may explain why so many people experience lingering illnesses or complications weeks after their initial infection.

[jcsmicasereports]

Emerging infectious agents: an unusual case of Metapneumovirus pneumonia in an adult patient by Graziana Francesca Greco in Journal of Clinical Case Reports Medical Images and Health Sciences

Abstract

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), a relatively new virus, is a common cause of acute respiratory infection, especially common in the pediatric population. Despite hMPV infection in adults is possible, this rarely results in serious clinical manifestation. Here, we describe a hypoxemic respiratory failure related to pneumonia in an adult patient in whom hMPV was detected in respiratory samples.

Keywords

Human Metapneumovirus; SARS-CoV-2; Covid-19.

CASE HISTORY

A 61-yr-old caucasian man presented to the Emergency Department (ASST Mantua Hospital, Mantua, Italy) with fever up to 39°C, poorly responsive to antipyretics, nocturnal dyspnea and productive cough with mucus-purulent sputum for three days. On physical examination he appeared in good general condition, collaborating and oriented. The following parameters were recorded: blood pressure 140/90mmHg, heart rate of 100 beats min-1; respiratory rate of 23 breaths min-1; and body temperature of 38.4°C. His arterial oxygen saturation on room air was 87%. Chest examination revealed abnormal breath sounds with rhonchi and fine crackles in the middle lobe and inferior lobes bilaterally, no wheezes were heard. Laboratory findings revealed lymphocytosis (81000 x 103/µl), low platelet count (113000 x 106/µl) and an increase in alanine transaminase value (59 U/L), total bilirubin value (1.13 mg/dL) and CPR value (112 mg/L). Room air arterial blood gas analysis showed a normocapnic hypoxemia: pH 7.43, carbon dioxide tension 40.5 mmHg, oxygen tension 60.4 mmHg, and HCO3 24 mmol L-1. The  SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection test on nasopharyngeal swab was negative. A chest radiograph showed multiple, small, patchy opacities in the right upper and middle lobe and  no pleural effusion was observed. Based on these findings he was admitted to the Respiratory Department.

His medical history included chronic lymphocytic leukemia in follow-up which did not require any specific treatment. He denied taking any medications or to be a smoker, he drinks a glass of wine once a day and has no known allergies. The patient was a farmer who cultivates wheat and maize but he had no animal exposure and no travel history in the last few years. There is no family history or childhood history of respiratory complaints. He was vaccinated with three dosesagainst the SARS-CoV-2 infection (Pfizer) but not against the influenza virus.

Based on the patient’s presentation and testing results, on suspicion of bacterial pneumonia he was empirically treated with IV Piperacillin/Tazobactam, the patient required oxygen support at 3L min-1 and an inhalation therapy with Beclomethasone/Formoterol was set up ex adiuvantibus. In the following days, several microbiological investigations were carried out to determine the etiology of pneumonia: blood culture, urinoculture, sputum culture, Legionella, Haemofilus and Pneumococcus serologic tests, Legionella pneumophila and Pneumococcal urinary antigen test, all of which were negative.

A  nasopharyngeal swab FilmArray Respiratory Panel Assay (NP FARP) was then requested: it was positive for human Metapneumovirus and the result was confirmed by repeating the test. For non responder fever and further increase of CPR (230 mg/l) and PCT (0.27 ng/ml), Levofloxacin and later Meropenem were added in the perspective of a resistant bacterial etiology.  On  the 6th hospitalization day a chest computed tomography (CT) scan was obtained (Figures 1 and 2) which demonstrated large opacities with gradient borders, distributed in the peribronchial area at the right upper lobe, middle lobe and both the lower lobes; they tended to the confluence configuring parenchymal consolidations with aerial bronchogram at the level of the cost-phrenic angle. Imaging also showed bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy (max diameter 3.4 x 2 cm), splenomegaly and absence of pleural effusion. Blood chemistry tests for HIV, Aspergillus antigen and galactomannan were also investigated but turned out negative. To rule out other infectious agents the patient underwent bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) into the middle lobe. BAL provides material for various microbiological and cytological tests: Gram stain, culture, Koch’s bacillus DNA, Galactomannan, Cytomegalovirus and P. Jirovecii and immunological analysis were negative. From respiratory virus panel on BAL only human Metapneumovirus was isolated, this unique microbiological data was according to the NP FARP’s result,  thus supporting and confirming the new hypothesis of a viral pneumonia in an adult patient with probable secondary mild immunosuppression due to his hematological disease. About ten days after entering the ward, there was a gradual decrease of CPR and a progressive improvement in clinical conditions and respiratory function to allow the suspension of oxygen therapy. At the end of hospitalization, pulmonary function tests were performed and showed a restrictive syndrome (FEV1/FVC 76.2, TLC 68% and VC 79% of predicted) and mild reduction of diffusion capacity (DLCO 62% and KCO 99%), probably representing the residual functional impairment due to viral pneumonia. The patient finally suspended all therapies and at discharge was referred for a one-month follow-up visit.

DISCUSSION

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), a relatively new virus first discovered in 2001, has been detected in 4-16% of patients with acute respiratory infections [1] [2] [3]. In particular, a recent review of 48 previous articles, including 100,151 patients under the age of five hospitalized for CAP, identified this virus as a cause of pneumonia in 3.9% of patients [4]. A recent study of 1386 hospitalized adult patients identified hMPV pneumonia in only 1.64%, indicating that it was much less common than in the infant population [5]. Metapneumovirus causes disease primarily in infants, but rarely can infect immunosuppressed individuals and elderly as well. Seroprevalence studies have shown that 90-100% of 5-10 years old children have previous infection [6]. Reinfection can occur during adulthood because of defected immunity acquired during the first contact with hMPV and/or because of different viral genotypes. The incubation period varies widely but is typically 3-5 days. The disease severity depends on the patient's condition and it ranges from mild upper airway infection to life-threatening pneumonia or bronchiolitis [7]. Clinically, Metapneumovirus infection is often indistinguishable from RSV infection, particularly in the pediatric population, and common symptoms include hypoxemia, cough, fever, upper and lower airway infections and wheezing [8]. hMPV infant patients are often hospitalized  for bronchiolitis and pneumonia [9]. In young adults, a flu-like syndrome with fever may occur in a small number of instances, but infection in geriatric subjects may cause severe clinical manifestations such as pneumonia and, in rare cases, death [10].

As described in this case, it was not surprising that antibiotics and corticosteroids were administered in most patients infected with Metapneumovirus mainly for two reasons: in most cases the specific diagnostic tests for hMPV are not carried out at admission and/or physicians prefer to continue steroid and antibiotic treatment to control potential unidentified bacterial infections in patients in which no etiological agent had been identified associated with hMPV infection. The overuse of these drugs could therefore be reduced through the adoption at admission of specific diagnostic tests for such etiological agent, especially if specific risk factors are present (age, immunodepression, etc.). In addition, the adoption of such tests could reduce the nosocomial spread of this virus, allowing an early isolation of the infected patient [11].

Conflicts of interest: The authors certify that there is no conflict of interest with any financial organization regarding the material discussed in the manuscript. Funding: The authors report no involvement in the research by the sponsor that could have influenced the outcome of this work.

Authors’ contributions : All authors contributed equally to the manuscript and read and approved the final version of the manuscript.

[nedsecondline]

WHO: No unusual patterns seen in China’s respiratory infection surge | CIDRAP

Flu most common among China’s sick; no usual pattern seen Data from China through December 29 show that acute respiratory illnesses increased in recent weeks, with detections of seasonal flu, rhinovirus, RSV, and hMPV, especially in the country’s northern provinces. The levels are within the range expected for this time of year, with influenza the most common cause so far. The WHO said it is in…

[top-general-blog-topic]

What is HMPV Virus? Basics of Human Metapneumovirus

Learn about HMPV Virus, a respiratory infection causing cold or flu-like symptoms, its spread, prevention tips, and treatment options.

[globalnews1]

Getty ImagesBeijing has experienced a surge in flu-like HMPV cases, especially among children, which it attributed to a seasonal spikeIn recent weeks, scenes of hospitals in China overrun with masked people have made their rounds on social media, sparking worries of another pandemic.Beijing has since acknowledged a surge in cases of the flu-like human metapneumovirus (HMPV), especially among children, and it attributed this to a seasonal spike.But HMPV is not like Covid-19, public health experts have said, noting that the virus has been around for decades, with almost every child being infected by their fifth birthday.However, in some very young children and people with weakened immune systems, it can cause more serious illness. Here is what you need to know.What is HMPV and how does it spread?HMPV is a virus that will lead to a mild upper respiratory tract infection - practically indistinguishable from flu - for most people. First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, the virus spreads through direct contact between people or when someone touches surfaces contaminated with it.Symptoms for most people include cough, fever and nasal congestion.The very young, including children under two, are most vulnerable to the virus, along with those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly and those with advanced cancer, says Hsu Li Yang, an infectious diseases physician in Singapore.If infected, a "small but significant proportion" among the immunocompromised will develop more severe disease where the lungs are affected, with wheezing, breathlessness and symptoms of croup. "Many will require hospital care, with a smaller proportion at risk of dying from the infection," Dr Hsu said. Why are cases rising in China?Like many respiratory infections, HMPV is most active during late winter and spring - some experts say this is because the viruses survive better in the cold and they pass more easily from one person to another as people stay indoors more often.In northern China, the current HMPV spike coincides with low temperatures that are expected to last until March. In fact many countries in the northern hemisphere, including but not limited to China, are experiencing an increased prevalence of HMPV, said Jacqueline Stephens, an epidemiologist at Flinders University in Australia."While this is concerning, the increased prevalence is likely the normal seasonal increase seen in winter," she said.Data from health authorities in the US and UK shows that these countries, too, have been experiencing a spike in HMPV cases since October last year.Is HMPV like Covid-19? How worried should we be?Fears of a Covid-19 style pandemic are overblown, the experts said, noting that pandemics are typically caused by novel pathogens, which is not the case for HMPV.HMPV is globally present and has been around for decades. This means people across the world have "some degree of existing immunity due to previous exposure", Dr Hsu said."Almost every child will have at least one infection with HMPV by their fifth birthday and we can expect to go onto to have multiple reinfections throughout life," says Paul Hunter, a medical professor at University of East Anglia in England."So overall, I don't think there is currently any signs of a more serious global issue."Still, Dr Hsu advises standard general precautions such as wearing a mask in crowded places, avoiding crowds where possible if one is at higher risk of more severe illness from respiratory virus infections, practising good hand hygiene, and getting the flu vaccine.

[ricisidro]

The WHO and the US CDC have not raised a red flag on the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) “outbreak” in China.

No vaccines so far but it's preventable and can be tested.

#WashHands #MaskUp #hmpvvirus

What is HMPV: CDC Explainer

https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html

Clean Hands Save Lives by CDC

https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html

[odnewsin]

HMPV: Odisha govt asks all healthcare facilities to remain on alert

Bhubaneswar: Amid the detection of cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the Odisha government Tuesday asked all medical facilities and laboratories in the state to remain prepared to tackle any exigency. After holding a high-level meeting here in the morning, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said a small number of…

[todayworldnews2k21]

Another pandemic brewing in China? All you need to know about Human Metapneumovirus - Times of India

This is an AI-generated image, used for representational purposes only. (Picture credit: DALL-E) Reports from China have raised concerns about a surge in respiratory infections, with claims of overcrowded hospitals and overwhelmed health systems. As per the reports, this surge is likely triggered by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). While some social media posts describe a crisis, Chinese…

[savodayalhospital]

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Symptoms, Causes, Prevention and Management

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an airborne respiratory virus that has garnered global HMPV attention. HMPV has reportedly been a major concern regarding viral outbreaks in China. After the five-year anniversary of COVID-19, respiratory viral infections in China have reportedly increased. 

The Union Health Ministry announced that HMPV in India has confirmed its first three cases, marking the first reported instances of the virus in the country. Though it is not a dangerous virus, precautionary measures have been directed to health and medical authorities worldwide to prevent its spread. As the outbreak of HMPV could potentially become another health emergency, it has escalated concerns of global health threats from the past experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.