Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that can cause breathing problems. Some people may only feel like they have a cold, but for others, it can lead to serious lung issues like pneumonia. The virus spreads mostly in the winter and early spring. You can catch it by being close to someone who is infected or by touching things they’ve touched, like doorknobs or toys, and then touching your face. While anyone can get sick from HMPV, it is more dangerous for young children, older people, and those with weak immune systems.

HMPV is similar to other viruses like RSV, measles, and mumps. Sadly, there is no vaccine or specific medicine to cure it. However, most people get better by resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and using common medicines to reduce pain, fever, or congestion.

Symptoms of HMPV

•    Cough
•    Runny or stuffy nose
•    Sore throat
•    Fever

In more serious cases, symptoms can include:

•    Wheezing or difficulty breathing
•    Hoarseness
•    Pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
•    Worsening of asthma, especially in adults

Babies under one year old, older adults, and people with weak immune systems are more likely to get very sick from HMPV. They might develop serious breathing problems like bronchiolitis, which is inflammation in the small airways of the lungs, or pneumonia, a lung infection.

Who is at risk?

While anyone can get HMPV, certain groups are more at risk of severe symptoms:
•    Young children under five years old: About 5-16% of cases may lead to serious lung infections like pneumonia.
•    Elderly people: Ageing weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off the virus.
•    People with chronic illnesses or weak immune systems: Those with conditions like asthma, COPD, or other respiratory problems are more likely to suffer complications.

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV spreads through tiny droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through:

•    Direct physical contact, like shaking hands
•    Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your face

Preventing HMPV

To protect yourself from HMPV and similar viruses, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise these simple steps:

1. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
2. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
3. Wear a mask in crowded places during outbreaks.
4. Stay home when you’re unwell to avoid spreading germs to others.
5. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs and light switches regularly.

How is HMPV diagnosed?

Doctors may recommend tests if symptoms are severe or during an outbreak:
•    NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test): Identifies the virus's genetic material.
•    Antigen tests: Detect viral proteins in respiratory samples.

Treating HMPV

Since there’s no specific medicine or vaccine, treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
•    Stay hydrated and take plenty of rest.
•    Use over-the-counter medicine for pain, fever, or congestion.
•    In severe cases, hospitalisation may be needed for oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids.

You should contact a doctor if:

•    Symptoms worsen after a few days.
•    There’s difficulty breathing or bluish skin (a sign of lack of oxygen).
•    Symptoms occur alongside other health problems like asthma or COPD.