Understanding HMPV - What You Need to Know

Have you had cold-like symptoms that last longer than expected?

Is it hard for you or your loved ones to breathe or do you have a cough you just can not shake? In the last 48 hours have you been exposed to someone that had flu-like symptoms?

If these situations remind you of something, we suggest that you read more about the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). 

1. What Is HMPV?

• Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an infectious virus with a preference for the respiratory system. 
• HMPV illnesses may present as acute upper respiratory tract infection like the common cold or severe lower respiratory tract disease particularly in the vulnerable groups like children and elders.

2. How Does HMPV Spread?

• Close Contact: Proximity to a patient suffering from the virus is a problem.
• Respiratory Droplets: A person who sneezes, disseminates the virus in the air which can cause HMPV.
• Surface Contamination: Involvement with an infected object or a surface and then transfer the hands to the face by touching the eyes, nose or the mouth.

3. Recognizing HMPV Symptoms

• Runny nose.
• Cough and sore throat.
• Fever and body aches.
• Asymptomatic, slight coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing in severe cases.
• Fatigue and reduced appetite.

4. Who Is Most at Risk?

• Infants and Young Children: They are prone simply because their immune systems are still in the developmental stage.
• Immunocompromised Individuals: They include cancer patients, people with chronic diseases, or are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy.
• People with Pre-existing Respiratory Conditions: People with conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

5. Preventing HMPV Infection

• Practice Good Hygiene: Use soap water and wash your hands for at least twenty seconds.
• Disinfect Surfaces: Cleaning high contact surfaces and hard surfaces often touched, by people including the door knob, mobile phones etc.
• Avoid Close Contact: Avoid contacting respiratory ill people close to you.
• Boost Your Immune System: To keep healthy therefore, take enough balanced meals, engage in a lot of exercises and make sure you get enough rest.

6. If you think you have HMPV:

• Seek Medical Attention: There are specific tests by which a healthcare provider can diagnose HMPV.
• Isolate: In order not to infect other individuals, avoid going out whenever experiencing the symptoms.

Knowledge of HMPV will then help you to be prepared and take the necessary precautions that would prevent the virus from spreading.