In recent weeks, the world has been shocked by reports of increasing cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in China. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of the virus spreading like the COVID-19 pandemic, but research shows that the virus has been around for decades and typically infects children before the age of 5. Now, HMPV, which usually affects the respiratory tract, has been found in Indonesia, causing concern for many, especially parents and people with compromised immune systems.
What is human metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus, also known as HMPV, belongs to a family of viruses called pneumoviridae - the same group as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The virus usually affects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms similar to the common cold, but can sometimes cause lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring.
What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus?
Most hMPV patients experience mild upper respiratory symptoms similar to the flu. These symptoms may include:
Coughing
Runny or stuffy nose
Sore throat
Fever
This infection usually goes away in two to five days. However, in some cases, the condition can worsen and cause serious health problems. In severe cases, patients may experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, and asthma attacks. Secondary lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia, may occur and require additional medical treatment.
How Does Human Metapneumovirus Spread?
The virus is spread by close contact with an infected person. You can be exposed to the virus if:
Touching a surface that contains the virus
Touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching an infected surface
Exposure to droplets from an infected person by sneezing, spitting, or coughing
Have close contact, such as shaking hands and touching
Once human metapneumovirus enters your body, the incubation period (the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms) is three to six days.
Who is at risk for human metapneumovirus infection?
Anyone can be infected with HMPV, but groups at higher risk include:
Newborns (especially premature babies)
Children under 5 years of age
Adults over 65 years of age
People with asthma who use steroids
People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer or HIV, or people who have had an organ transplant.
How common is human metapneumovirus in people?
Researchers estimate that about 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV. Most cases are mild, but about 5% to 16% of children develop lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia.
Can Human Metapneumovirus infection be prevented?
You can reduce your risk of contracting HMPV and other infectious diseases by:
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you cannot use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your nose and mouth - with your elbows, not your bare hands - when you sneeze or cough.
Avoid being around others if you or they have a cold or other contagious illness.
Consider wearing a mask if you are sick and cannot avoid being around others.
Avoid touching frequently touched surfaces such as handrails or doorknobs.
Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth.
Do not share food or eating utensils (forks, spoons, cups) with others.
How is human metapneumovirus diagnosed?
Your doctor will perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history, and take samples from your nose, mouth, or throat for a rapid antigen test or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the virus. If symptoms are severe, the doctor may perform a bronchoscopy to take fluid samples to check for the presence of the virus. Keep in mind that you may not be tested for HMPV unless you have severe symptoms.
When should you see your doctor?
Most people who experience mild symptoms of HMPV do not need to see a doctor, as the disease resolves on its own and supportive care at home is enough to manage the symptoms. However, if your symptoms get worse and you experience shortness of breath, severe coughing, or wheezing, you should see your doctor right away.
It is important to consult a physician before performing this test.
If you have any concerns regarding Human Metapneumovirus infection, please do not hesitate to contact our doctors at K-Lab Medical Center. We are ready to provide consultation services and test recommendations that suit your condition. For more information you can contact our WhatsApp clinic at 081381367915.
Sumber: Webmd – what is human metapneumovirus
Clevelandclinic - Human Metapneumovirus
American Lung Association - Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) Symptoms and Diagnosis
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