Be Alert! HMPV respiratory virus is spreading fast. Know symptoms, precautionary measures

Although the cases of COVID and RSV are falling, another respiratory virus called HMPV is spreading. In early March, around 20 per cent of antigen tests and nearly 11 per cent of PCR tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US. The positivity rate for PCR tests has increased by 36 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels. Although the percentages remained high in April, they started to decrease in May. Hence, a sigh of relief.

A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report says that the positivity rates have decreased during the warmer months, similar to what is observed for colds and flu. For instance, the data says that the Antigen Detection rate and PCR Detection rate observed on April 3, 2023, were 19.395 and 10.368, respectively which has fallen down to the rate of 0.000 and 2.558, respectively, as observed on May 20, 2023.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts in people of all ages, with higher vulnerability in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.


Severe cases of HMPV can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period for HMPV is around 3 to 6 days, and the duration of the illness varies depending on its severity, but it is similar to other respiratory infections such as colds. See a doctor if it lasts for more than the given period.

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

Common symptoms of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.

What to do during HMPV?

Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine available for human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Therefore, the primary approach to prevention involves good hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and frequent handwashing.

FAQs

1. What does HMPV stand for?
   Human metapneumovirus
2. When was the first case of HMPV?
   It was first reported in 2001 in the Netherlands.It was first reported in 2001 in the Netherlands.