hMPV: Understanding the Virus, Its Spread, and How to Stay Safe

Introduction to Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)

The recent hMPV outbreak in China has brought Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) into the spotlight. While the virus is not new to the medical community, its sudden surge in media reports has sparked comparisons to COVID-19 and raised concerns about its possible impact. 

hMPV Cases in IndiaAs of January 7, 2025, India has reported 7 confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) infections. These cases have been detected in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Tamil Nadu, and Ahmedabad.  Disclaimer: The number of cases is subject to change as new data becomes available. Please refer to official health sources for the most current information.

What is hMPV?

hMPV is a respiratory virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family. It is known to cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe respiratory conditions, especially in young children and older people. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets and typically circulates in winter and early spring.  

Discovery and Background of hMPV

Despite its recent emergence in public awareness, hMPV was first identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers who isolated the virus from children suffering from acute respiratory illnesses. Subsequent studies revealed that hMPV had been circulating in human populations for decades prior to its discovery, often misdiagnosed as other respiratory infections due to similarities in symptoms. 

Symptoms of hMPV Infection

hMPV infection can present with a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. 

Common Symptoms of hMPV in Children and Adults

• Runny or congested nose
• Sneezing
• Cough and sore throat
• Fever
• Fatigue and body aches
• Shortness of breath

Severe Complications

While most cases of hMPV are mild, severe complications can occur: 

• Pneumonia: Infection spreading to the lungs, causing difficulty breathing and low oxygen levels (hypoxia).
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the airways (bronchial tubes), leading to persistent coughing and discomfort.
• Existing Respiratory Condition Flare-ups: In individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hMPV can worsen symptoms, leading to increased wheezing, difficulty breathing, and persistent coughing. 

How hMPV Spreads?

hMPV spreads in ways similar to other respiratory infections such as COVID and the flu, and understanding its transmission can help you reduce the risk of getting infected.

Transmission Modes of hMPV

• Respiratory Droplets: Spread through coughing, sneezing, or talking.
• Surface Contact: Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face, especially the mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Close Proximity: Sharing personal items (e.g., utensils, tissues) with infected individuals.
• Airborne Transmission (less common): Though less frequent than with viruses like COVID-19, hMPV can spread through small droplets in the air, particularly in poorly ventilated, enclosed spaces.

 The estimated Incubation Period Of hMPV infection is 3-6 days.

Seasonal Trends and Why Winter Matters

hMPV infection is more common in the colder months, typically peaking during winter and early spring: 

• Peak during colder months: The colder, drier air of winter can dry out the mucous membranes in the respiratory system. It can lead to a decrease in defences, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections.
• Increased indoor activity: People tend to spend more time indoors during winter, increasing the likelihood of close contact and, consequently, transmission of the virus.

Who is at Risk?

hMPV doesn’t affect everyone equally, and understanding the groups that are at higher risk helps in prioritizing preventive care. 

Vulnerable Populations

• Children: Particularly infants and toddlers, as they are yet to develop antibodies against this infection. 
• Elderly: Age-related decline in immunity makes older adults more susceptible.
• Immunocompromised Individuals: Those with chronic illnesses, AIDS, organ transplants, or undergoing treatments for immune suppression or chemotherapy, may face greater risks.

Diagnosing hMPV

hMPV symptoms often resemble those of other respiratory infections, like influenza, RSV, and the common cold. As a result, doctors rely on both clinical evaluation and laboratory tests to accurately diagnose the condition.

• Clinical Evaluation: Doctor checks for symptoms and signs of the illness. 
• RT-PCR Testing: It detects the virus’s genetic material in respiratory samples like nasal or throat swabs. 
• Rapid Antigen Tests: Used for quicker results, but they are less sensitive than RT-PCR. 
• Viral Culture (less common): Growing the virus from a sample in the lab. 
• Chest X-rays or Imaging: For severe cases and complications your doctor may advise X-ray and CT scan of chest to evaluate the health of lungs. 
• Blood Tests : Other than specific diagnostic tests for hMPV, doctors may advise other blood tests like CBC, CRP and more depending upon the patient’s clinical presentation.

Treatment Options

While there is currently no targeted antiviral therapy or vaccine available for hMPV, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting recovery:

• Supportive Care: Rest, hydration, and maintaining a nutritious diet to support recovery, Medicines for reducing fever and pain relief, Decongestants may also be prescribed to help alleviate nasal congestion.
• Symptomatic Treatment: Doctors may prescribe medications to manage specific symptoms, such as inhalers for wheezing or antihistamines to manage cough and cold.
• Severe Cases: Hospitalization may be necessary for individuals with serious complications, like pneumonia, to provide oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, corticosteroids,  or other intensive care.
• Avoid Self-Medication: Self-medicating, especially with antibiotics or unprescribed drugs, can do more harm than good. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Prevention of hMPV Infections

Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of hMPV transmission and infection. Thankfully, we’re already familiar with these precautionary measures because they’re very similar to the ones we practised during the COVID pandemic.

Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquettes

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid touching the face, especially the nose, mouth, and eyes.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow to prevent droplet spread.
• Wear a mask when needed.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces regularly.

Avoid Close Contact

People at risk should maintain physical distancing from individuals showing symptoms of respiratory infections and avoid sharing personal items like utensils or towels. Wear a mask while taking care of someone who is showing symptoms of hMPV or flu-like illness.

The Role of Vaccines: Current Research Updates

As of January 2025, there is no approved vaccine for hMPV. However, recent research efforts are actively exploring vaccine development:

• mRNA Vaccine Trials: Researchers at the University of Oxford have initiated a Phase 1 study to evaluate investigational mRNA vaccines targeting both Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and hMPV. This dual-target approach aims to provide broader protection against common respiratory viruses. 

• Combination Protein Vaccines: AstraZeneca has announced plans to acquire Icosavax, a biotechnology company developing IVX-A12, a potential first-in-class, Phase III-ready combination protein virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine. This vaccine targets both RSV and hMPV. 

• Live Attenuated Vaccines (LAVs): LAVs contain a weakened form of the virus, designed to stimulate an immune response without causing the disease. For hMPV, LAVs are under investigation due to their potential to provide effective and long-lasting immunity.

 Make sure infants and adults receive all the recommended vaccines as a preventive measure. 

 Role of Other Vaccines – It is important to stay updated with all your vaccinations for influenza and covid-19 to reduce the risk of serious illness due to co-infections.  

hMPV vs COVID-19

In light of the recent surge in hMPV cases, it’s natural to draw comparisons with the COVID-19 pandemic experienced a few years ago. Understanding the distinctions between these two viruses is essential for informed awareness and appropriate response.

Conclusion

Even though hMPV is common, it’s not as well-known as other respiratory viruses. It often gets overlooked because its symptoms are similar to those of the flu and the like. Most people recover with some home care, but in severe cases, complications can arise if not addressed early.

That’s why more research and awareness are needed to fully understand and manage hMPV. The good news is that vaccine trials are showing promise for better prevention and treatment options.

If you experience symptoms or complications, don’t panic—avoid self-medicating and consult your doctor. It’s always better to seek help early, ideally within a couple of days. Simple steps like wearing a mask, maintaining personal hygiene, and avoiding crowds can make all the difference. Stay healthy and stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. World Health Organization. Trends of acute respiratory infection, including human metapneumovirus, in the Northern Hemisphere. World Health Organization. 2025 May 10 [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON550
2. American Lung Association. Treatment and recovery for human metapneumovirus (HMPV). American Lung Association. [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/human-metapneumovirus-hmpv/treatment-recovery
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) information. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html
4. Press Information Bureau. Government of India announces measures to combat human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Press Information Bureau. [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2090780
5. Sieling WD, Goldman CR, Oberhardt M, Phillips M, Finelli L, Saiman L. Comparative incidence and burden of respiratory viruses associated with hospitalization in adults in New York City. Influenza Other Respir Viruses. 2021 Sep;15(5):670-677. doi: 10.1111/irv.12842. Epub 2021 Jan 26. PMID: 33501772; PMCID: PMC8013984. [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33501772/
6. AstraZeneca. AstraZeneca to acquire Icosavax, including potential first-in-class RSV and HMPV combination vaccine with positive Phase II data. AstraZeneca. 2023 Dec 19 [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/press-releases/2023/astrazeneca-to-acquire-icosavax-including-potential-first-in-class-rsv-and-hmpv-combination-vaccine-with-positive-phase-ii-data.html
7. Ren J, Phan T, Bao X. Recent vaccine development for human metapneumovirus. J Gen Virol. 2015 Jul;96(Pt 7):1515-20. doi: 10.1099/vir.0.000083. Epub 2015 Feb 9. PMID: 25667325; PMCID: PMC4635448. [cited 2025 Jan 9]. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4635448/

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