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HMPV: The Respiratory Virus You Should Know About
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Human Metapneumovirus has been in the news lately because researchers and health professionals are trying to get a better understanding of this respiratory virus. Even though HMPV is not as well-known as some other respiratory infections, its impact on individuals, especially during seasonal outbreaks, cannot be ignored. From its mode of transmission to its potential to cause serious respiratory issues, this virus is one to watch. But do not worry; as we break down the key aspects of HMPV, you will be better equipped in managing and preventing it.
With Cellmaflex, finding the appropriate provider for HMPV is easy for the patient. Online booking, medical record update, and direct communication with their provider are just some of the available features of our digital platform. No calling is needed; this way, one gets the right care at the right time in an easy and effective manner.
In this blog, you will find everything you need to know about HMPV, from how it is spread, the symptoms, risk factors, to diagnosis, treatment, prevention strategies, and seasonal trends in outbreaks. So, let’s dive in!
What is human metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that typically causes symptoms that are similar to the common cold. It often causes upper respiratory infections, but it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections such as pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or worsen chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring.
Human Metapneumovirus was first identified in Netherlands in 2001. According to American Lung Association, most children who get infected with HMPV are age 5 or younger. A small number of children (5-16%) infected will develop a lower respiratory tract infection such as pneumonia. According to NIH, human metapneumovirus, like most common human respiratory viruses, is associated with URI. Although the exact definition of URI differs from one study to another, hMPV is considered to cause 5 to 15% of the URI in children.
What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus?
Symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath (dyspnoea).
- Rash
In severe cases the symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Asthma
- Breathing problem
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
What causes a human metapneumovirus infection?
A virus that uses your cells to make more copies of itself, causes human metapneumovirus. It’s part of the same group of viruses that cause RSV, measles and mumps.
How is human metapneumovirus transmitted?
Human metapneumovirus spreads through direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated with it. For example:
- 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 human metapneumovirus, but you are 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?
At times, human metapneumovirus leads to complications. They can be severe and will necessitate that you be hospitalised. They include the following:
- Bronchiolitis.
- Bronchitis.
- Pneumonia.
- Asthma or COPD exacerbations.
- Ear infection (otitis media).
Human Metapneumovirus and its impacts on respiratory health
The primary impact of human metapneumovirus is on respiratory health. In most healthy individuals, the virus causes mild cold-like symptoms that resolve on their own. However, in the vulnerable population, such as the very young and elderly, and may cause more serious complications, which may require medical attention. The virus causes inflammation and blockage in the airways, which makes breathing difficult, especially in those with pre-existing lung conditions.
How is human metapneumovirus diagnosed?
Healthcare providers make diagnoses based mostly on your signs and symptoms and health history. They will probably also gently take a swab sample using a soft-tipped stick inserted into your nostril or throat and have it examined in the lab for viruses or other infections. You will unlikely be tested for human metapneumovirus if you do not have severe symptoms.
Sometimes, your provider will also do a bronchoscopy or chest X-rays to look for changes in the airways of your lungs.
How is human metapneumovirus treated?
Currently, there is no antiviral drug for human metapneumovirus. The treatment is only symptomatic and supportive. It can be from rest, fluids, over-the-counter medication for fever and pain, and even hospitalization in severe cases to provide oxygen therapy or ventilatory support. Early intervention is the way to go to manage the infection, especially among at-risk populations.
Prevention and Vaccines
Basic preventive measures include hand washing frequently, avoidance of close contact with infected individuals, and proper disinfection of surfaces that are touched frequently. For now, there is no vaccine for HMPV, but the ongoing research may produce a future vaccine. For now, good hygiene and enhancement of the immune system are the best ways to prevent infection.
Do’s and Don’ts in Human Metapneumovirus
Dos:
- Use a mask to cover both your mouth and nose when required.
- Wash your hands with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, several times a day.
- Avoid touching people who are coughing or sneezing or have fever.
- Avoid places with large groups of people.
- Keep healthy by consuming healthy food and drink plenty of water.
- Avoid socialising unnecessarily.
- Consult the doctor if you experience persistent symptoms.
- Encourage parents to avoid sending their sick children to school, as it can elevate the risk of illness among the vulnerable population.
- Seek medical consultation if you realize early symptoms in children.
- Try to stay isolated at home if you experience persistent symptoms.
Don’t:
- Avoid shaking hands and intimate touch.
- Do not reuse tissue papers or handkerchiefs.
- Avoid touching or coming close to infected persons.
- Avoid touching those surfaces frequently contacted like floors, walls, and door handles.
- Self-medication must be avoided
- Do not share food in public places.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid using public transportation when you feel sick.
- Do not ignore early symptoms; seek medical help promptly.
- Avoid crowded areas and places in case you’re having symptoms
Human Metapneumovirus Outbreaks and Seasonal Trends
HMPV tends to peak in the fall and winter months, as cold weather is likely to have people indoors, thus possibly exposing them more to the virus. Most outbreaks are experienced in crowded places, including daycare, nursing homes and hospitals. Regular surveillance of this helps the public health authority prepare and manage any potential outbreak.
Human Metapneumovirus and Public Health Awareness
Public awareness of HMPV is increasing, particularly with more research showing its impact on respiratory health. As with other viral infections, knowing how it spreads, what the symptoms are, and when to seek treatment early can be the difference between severe complications and otherwise.
The Future of Human Metapneumovirus Research
Research on HMPV is still under way. Researchers are studying ways to develop treatment and prevent the infection. Improvement in the vaccines, antiviral drugs, and early detection might change the horizon of managing human metapneumovirus within the next decade. Until then, continued public health efforts and education campaigns remain an essential aspect in controlling the virus.
How Cellmaflex helps patients
Cellmaflex is an integrated digital medical hub for patients. Cellmaflex allows the patient to sign up free and easily find a suitable healthcare provider. With one click, patients can browse through the directory of the specialists they can see, check the availability of their preferred doctors, and even book appointments online without having to make any calls or waste hours in waiting rooms.
Direct results of the tests can be accessed by the patients, anywhere, at any time. In addition, patients can locate pharmacies nearest to them through Cellmaflex. This ensures prompt availability of various medications and supplements that may aid in better management.
Cellmaflex empowers patients to take charge of their health with smooth appointment scheduling, rapid viewing of test results, and even hassle-free coordination with specialists for the required care. Cellmaflex provides patients with the support they need every step of their journey.
Whether you are seeking to manage your respiratory health during flu season or stay informed on the latest in viral infections, it’s essential to stay up to date on conditions like HMPV. And with tools like Cellmaflex at your fingertips, managing appointments, prescriptions, and health records has never been easier.
FAQs
Human Metapneumovirus can be dangerous to certain risk groups, such as the very young, older adults, and anyone who is either immunocompromised or has an underlying respiratory condition. While most cases of HMPV are relatively mild and resemble cold symptoms, more serious respiratory problems such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis can develop in susceptible patients. Watch for symptoms and be sure to consult a physician if symptoms become more severe or breathing becomes difficult.
Yes, it is possible for HMPV to reinfect since it is often acquired immunity after infection is incomplete or of short duration. It is for this reason that some people, mainly children and older adults, can suffer repeated infections at intervals.
HMPV and RSV are a family of related viruses called the Paramyxoviridae, and their clinical manifestation tends to be the same especially in young children and elderly but they are different viruses with a different genetic make-up.
Symptoms of HMPV infection persist for about 7-10 days. Patients with predisposing conditions may take several days to fully recover and would require medical assistance in severe infections.
Cellmaflex boasts of robust security solutions in the form of data encryption, role-based access control, among other security measures which are provided at all times, especially when patients come in droves due to the outbreak.
Yes, Cellmaflex is well-integrated with the laboratory management systems. Test results for HMPV or any other respiratory infection are thus immediately reflected in the patient’s record. This can then expedite diagnosis and proper treatment.
