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Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV): Everything You Need to Know About the Surging Respiratory Virus

By: Salah Qutaishat, Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, Ph.D

 
Rising cases of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China and the United States have recently increased fears of another respiratory virus pandemic. However, hMPV is not a new virus and is unlikely to trigger another pandemic. Discovered in 2001 by researchers in the Netherlands, hMPV is a member of a family of viruses called “the Pneumoviridae family.” Another well-known member of this family is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which has been present across the globe for decades. However, just like any other contagious pathogen, it’s vital to be aware of the virus and use prevention strategies to protect public health and at-risk groups.

Below are answers to commonly asked questions about hMPV.

What is hMPV?

hMPV is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory infections. With an incubation period that ranges between 3 to 7 days, after inoculation, the virus spreads quickly into the respiratory tract. It can infect people of all ages, but young children, senior citizens and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible. While most cases are mild, some people experience severe infections that require medical treatment and hospitalization.

How Does it Spread?

Like other respiratory viruses, hMPV spreads primarily by droplets from infected individuals with the virus through coughing, sneezing and personal contact such as shaking hands. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and high touch points like door handles and light switches and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

What are the Symptoms?

hMPV has the same epidemiology as other respiratory pathogens including the common cold and RSV. Individuals who experience an upper respiratory infection may have symptoms including cough, congestion, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and fever. With lower respiratory infections, symptoms can include wheezing, fever, cough and shortness of breath. More severe lower respiratory infections can lead to bronchiolitis, acute asthma, croup and pneumonia. Occasionally, some individuals also experience gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.1

How is hMPV Identified?

There is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test available to detect hMPV in a timely, accurate manner. However, testing for this virus is not widespread. Since most cases are mild and only a small percentage require hospitalization, the exact number of cases in the United States is uncertain. Also, since hMPV is most active in late winter and spring, it circulates simultaneously with RSV and Influenza during the respiratory virus season making it impossible to distinguish without testing.

How is hMPV Treated?

There is currently no antiviral medication or vaccine for hMPV, so it is treated with supportive measures to make the patient more comfortable. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are often suggested for patients with fever and/or body aches.

How can People Protect Themselves from Infection?

Personal hMPV prevention strategies include avoiding sick people, wearing masks, and frequent handwashing. Individuals should also avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

How Do You Reduce the Spread in Public Facilities?

The good news is that hMPV is an enveloped virus which makes it easy to kill with a disinfectant or even just soap and water. Surfaces, especially high-touch areas, should be cleaned and disinfected on a routine basis.

The Future of hMPV

While hMPV is not a pandemic threat, it’s essential to be aware of it and follow proper prevention strategies. Due to the recent surge in cases, there is ongoing, active research being conducted to develop a vaccine, study its pathogenesis and identify effective treatments.
 
With several decades of experience delivering professional disinfection services, The Budd Group has the expertise and resources to help protect facilities from various pathogens and contaminants efficiently and safely. For more information about The Budd Group’s disinfection services, visit www.buddgroup.com/disinfection-services. For more information on hMPV, visit www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html.
 

About the Author

Dr. Salah S. Qutaishat has dedicated over three decades to advancing infection prevention and healthcare epidemiology, striving for a safer, germ-free world. He earned his Ph.D. in microbiology from the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1983. A distinguished expert in his field, Dr. Qutaishat is a Fellow of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (FSHEA) and the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (FAPIC).

1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560910

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