Human metapneumovirus { HMPV}  is a virus that causes symptoms similar to a cold. It spreads like other common cold viruses and can enter the body by touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs or handles and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth—the same time as other common respiratory viruses such as seasonal flu and RSV. Hmpv has been cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children. That spread through the air from one sick person to another.

HMPV symptoms and infection?

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Sore throat 
  • Body ache
  • Headache
  • Runny or stuffy nose

Symptoms of more severe disease include wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, severe fatigue, dehydration, and fever that does not improve. the common cause of infection among children among 5 years old.

HMPV infection prevented? 

Wearing a mask in crowded ventilated spaces. Ventilation is possible such as by opening a window for air flow. Cleaning hands regularly soap and water and alcohol-based hand rub. Avoiding touching eyes, nose, and hands. A strong immune system can help off infections. Eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. Wearing a mask when around other people. covering the nose and mouth with a tissue.

HMPV TREATMENT

Their healthcare providers can monitor your condition and help prevent you from getting sicker.  

  • OXYGEN THERAPY  hard time breathing provider extra oxygen through a tube your nose mask on your face. 
  • IV FLUIDS: fluids delivered directly to you hydrated. 
  • CORTICOSTEROIDS: steroids reduce inflammation and might some of your symptoms.

 Treatment is mostly geared toward easy symptoms generally the counter medication to control pain and fever such as ACETAMINOPHEN and IBUPROFEN. Use a corticosteroid nasal spray to ease pressure inside your nose. Inhaler to help with breathing problems. if you are tested your doctor typically gets a sample by swabbing your nose or throat. 

How serious is human metapneumovirus?

  • Wheezing 
  • Asthma flare-ups 
  • A hard time breathing 
  • Fatigue 
  • Bronchitis 

How is HMPV Detected?  

  • HMPV PCR TEST: molecular test detects virus genetic material with high accuracy the gold standard for diagnosing HMPV. 
  • RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS:  provide quicker results but are less sensitive compared to PCR tests. 
  • BRONCHOSCOPY: changes in the airways of the lungs.

How to protect yourself from HMPV 

  • Hand hygiene
  • Mask wearing 
  • Social distance
  • Avoid touching the face
  • Proper ventilation
  • Self-isolation
  • Regular cleaning 
  • Vaccination

TRANSMISSION: close contact / infected person or contaminated surface. serious complications can occur, especially in certain high-risk groups, such as young children, older people, or immunocompromised people.

HMPV in China has raised concerns, especially the virus spreading in the northern provinces. the virus spreading in countries like Malaysia, governments across the world, and Asian countries like India’s health protocols to deal with HMPV.A few vaccine candidates are effective in preventing clinical disease. All continents have a seasonal distribution. Hmpv is commonly found in the pediatric population with high susceptibility rates in children less than 2 years old .Hmpv infection in adults normally shows only mild flu-like symptoms. Risk factors associated with severe HMPV infection include premature birth, young age, pre-existing nosocomial infection, and underlying chronic pulmonary, heart, or neural disorders.

Conclusion  

Symptoms of hmpv usually resolve within a week or two cases or for individuals at high risk, hmpv since it is a viral infection. Hmpv is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and young children. Winter takes normal precautions to prevent the spread and risk, especially to the most vulnerable. cleaning hands regularly, alcohol-based hand rub avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth without cleaning hands first.