A Short Brief on HMPV - Human Metapneumovirus

 

You may have noticed recent news reports discussing Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). While it’s important to stay informed, we at Plus91 want to assure everyone that there is no cause for alarm. HMPV is not new, and most cases are mild and manageable.

To help you better understand HMPV, we have written up 2 separate briefs on the topic. One for the general public, which is written in a kid friendly manner, and another for the majority of Plus91's ecosystem , doctors, researchers and medical staff. 

These documents answer common questions about the virus. Please take a few minutes to read it and share with your friends and family who may be concerned too

If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our inhouse doctors.

A Short Brief on HMPV For Doctors, Medical Staff and Researchers:

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, closely related to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It was first identified in 2001 but has been circulating in humans for at least 50 years.

Key Characteristics of HMPV:

1. Target Population:
• Primarily affects children under 5 years, older adults over 65 years, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
2. Symptoms:
• Similar to other respiratory infections, including fever, cough, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. Severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
3. Transmission:
• Spread occurs through respiratory droplets, close contact, and touching contaminated surfaces (fomites).
4. Diagnosis:
• Typically diagnosed using RT-PCR tests from nasal or throat swabs. Multiplex panels like BIOFIRE can also identify HMPV.
5. Severity:
• Most cases (90–95%) are mild. Severe cases requiring hospitalization are less common and often involve high-risk groups.
6. Treatment:
• No specific antiviral treatment exists. Care is supportive, focusing on symptom management (e.g., paracetamol for fever, hydration, and oxygen therapy if needed).
7. Fatality Rate:
• Low, with less than 1% fatality in most cases.
8. Prevention:
• Standard precautions, such as avoiding close contact with infected individuals, wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home when symptomatic, can help reduce transmission.

 

Comparison to Other Respiratory Viruses:

 

HMPV shares clinical features with viruses like RSV and influenza but is less widely recognized. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV does not pose a significant pandemic threat.

HMPV infections are common worldwide and contribute significantly to respiratory illnesses, particularly during the late winter and early spring seasons in many regions.

Link to document - A Short brief on HPMV :

Short Brief on HMPV - The Kid Friendly Version

Note that HMPV is like a tough cold that most people get better from quickly, but being careful can keep you and others around you safe!