What is human metapneumovirus?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the most common viral pathogens responsible for respiratory diseases. It belongs to a group of similar viruses that include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza virus. Human metapneumovirus can range in severity from asymptomatic to acute. Although the virus may occur at any age, the most endangered populations are very young patients with a compromised immune system and seniors. In pediatric patients, it is often represented as a serious whistling, but can also cause grip or pneumonia. Dr. Albert Osterhaus, headed by the boss of the Virology Department and the Professor of Virology, found a team of scientists in cultures since 28 children, at that time hospitalized in Erasmus Medical Center, with respiratory conditions of unknown causes. Other laboratories around the world have ever confirmed the presence of human metapneumovirus. The extensive nature of antibodies specific to the HMPV found in human blood samples from various laboratories suggests thatE viral pathogen was the cause of respiratory infections in humans for more than 50 years.

Human metapneumovirus most often causes symptoms of upper respiratory tract, including nasal overload, cold, cough and sore throat. HmPVs can also result in symptoms similar to flu such as fever, body pain and vomiting. Less common conditions associated with virus include bronchiolitis, conjunctivitis, otitis media, diarrhea and rash. Human metapneumovirus infection may deepen symptoms in patients with asthma and may cause difficulty breathing and more serious respiratory diseases in very young, older or immunocompromised patients. The virus can also be present without clinical manifestations.

Human metapneumovirusse most often spreads direct or close contact with respiratory secrets from those who have been infected. The virus can also be spread by contact with objects contaminated by respiratory secretionsthe infected persons. After exposure, the person may develop symptoms within three to five days. Reinfection with HMPV may occur, although after initial infection the symptoms tend to be milder. In the United States, HMPV occurs most often at the end of winter and early in the spring.

The treatment of human metapneumovirus may include medicines that minimize symptoms. Particularly useful can be useful reduction of fever, antihistamines and treatment for improving breathing. The propagation of HMPV can be prevented from correct and frequent washing of the hands, covering the mouth and nose of the tissue during coughing or sneezing and rapidly disposing of contaminated tissue.