About Human Metapneumovirus:
- It is a respiratory virus that causes mild infections similar to that caused by a common cold.
- It was first identified by scientists in 2001 which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, of which respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles and mumps are also members.
- It can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections and is generally seen in winter and early spring.
- Children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the infection and to developing complications from it.
- Signs and symptoms:
- Symptoms can resemble those caused by a common cold. They include a cough, runny or blocked nose, sore, throat, fever and wheezing.
- The estimated incubation period is three to six days.
- In most people, the illness goes away on its own within a few days, with rest and supportive care at home.
- In a few people however, complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia may arise, requiring medical care.
- Transmission:
-
- It spreads through contact with an infected person or touching objects that have the virus on them.
- This can be through: secretions from coughs, sneezes; close contact with someone who has the infection such as shaking hands, hugging; touching a doorknob or a phone or a keyboard that may be contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes.
- Treatment: There is no vaccine and there is no specific antiviral to treat HMPV. Most people require over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and pain, possibly with a decongestant. Antibiotics will not work for HMPV.
