Human Metapneumovirus:
The highly contagious human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is spreading rapidly across the West Coast of the United States, becoming a major cause of concern for the authorities.
- It is a respiratory virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
- It causes symptoms similar to the common cold.
- The virus is highly contagious. HMPV most likely spreads from an infected person to others through:
- the air by coughing and sneezing
- close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them, then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
- Symptoms:
- Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
- In some people, these symptoms may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia.
- The symptoms of HMPV can be similar to symptoms from other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections.
- The majority of the cases are mild, but people with the highest risk of severe illness include young children, older adults, and those who are immunocompromised.
- Treatment:
- There is no vaccine, and there is no specific antiviral to treat HMPV.
- Treatment primarily aims at managing symptoms and preventing complications.
