Human Metapneumovirus hMPV Infection
Human metapneumovirus hMPV infection is one of the viruses that causes the common cold an upper respiratory infection. It usually makes people only mildly sick, but it can also make some people very poorly.
What is Human metapneumovirus hMPV ?
The hMPV virus belongs to the Pneumoviridae family of viruses, along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It was first identified back in 2001 and has been spreading among people around the world for many decades.
The virus spreads like other common cold viruses do, through infectious respiratory particles that spread through the air from a sick person to others.
This means a person can catch the virus when they are close to an infected person or sharing a closed space with them.
It can also enter the body by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.
hMPV infection Prevention
Preventing human metapneumovirus hMPV infection is similar to preventing other respiratory illnesses with actions such as:
- Wearing quality face masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
- Improving ventilation where possible such as by opening a window for air flow
- Cleaning hands regularly and thoroughly, with either soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser
- Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth without cleaning hands first.
- Having a strong immune system can also help fend off infections. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and sleeping properly help with that.
How To Prevent Spreading Human metapneumovirus hMPV
Human metapneumovirus hMPV infection. When someone is sick, they can avoid spreading the virus by
- Covering nose and mouth with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing
- Staying at home if they feel ill
- Wearing a mask when around other people
- Regularly cleaning hands
- Disinfecting touched surfaces with Alcohol Disinfectant Wipes
- improving ventilation, especially in shared spaces
Metapneumovirus hMPV Infection Cure
There is currently no vaccine licensed for use against hMPV, but research is ongoing.
What Are the Infection Signs Of hMPV & Symptoms
Generally, people infected with hMPV will have cold or flu-like symptoms:
- Cough and also a sore throat
- Higher than normal temperature fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body ache as well as a headache
It can make a few people quite sick, causing infection of the lung (pneumonia) or inflammation of the airways to the lungs (bronchiolitis, bronchitis). Symptoms of more severe disease include wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, severe fatigue, dehydration, or a persistent fever that does not improve. If someone is experiencing any of these severe symptoms, they should seek medical advice.
hMPV Infection Treatment
As hMPV is a cold virus, people can treat their symptoms with over-the-counter medicines to treat pain, fever, stuffy nose and cough. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated also helps.
Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine for hMPV. Most people feel better in a few days. If symptoms get worse, they should contact their health care provider. Those who are at higher risk should also consult their doctor, even if their symptoms are not too bad.
In a small number of cases, when people need to be hospitalized, doctors may give them extra oxygen to help them recover.
