What are its symptoms, causes and precautions?

What is HMPV? What are its symptoms, causes and precautions?

HMTV refers to human metapneumovirus which is a negative sense single stranded RNA virus of the family pneumovirinae and is closely related to avian metapneumovirus (AMPV) subgroup C. HMPV is essentially a viral infection. It is a seasonal disease that occurs during winters and spring.

Symptoms of HMPV

HMPV is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to common cold such as

Running or stuffy nose

Cough 

Shortness of breath

Sore throat 

Wheezing

Fever

Rash

It often causes upper respiratory infections. But it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia asthma flare ups or make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring.

HMPV most often causes symptoms similar to a cold. But some people can get very sick. You are more likely to get severely sick the first time you get HMPV which is why young kids have a greater risk for serious illness.

Causes of HMPV

Like other respiratory viruses hmpv spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. HMPV enters the body through the nose, mouth or eyes typically after inhaling droplets from an infected person coughing, sneezing or breathing or after touching contaminated surfaces; these modes of transmission are similar to those of the common cold flu and other respiratory viruses.

Researchers estimate that about 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV. Most cases are mild but about 5% to 16% of children will develop our lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.

In simple way HMPV is most likely spread from an infected person to others through,

Secretion from coughing and sneezing

Close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands

Touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them then touching the mouth nose or eyes.

Precautions from HMPV

Globally who reports HMPV is circulating seasonally alongside influenza and rsv preventive measures including rest, hygiene and avoiding crowded areas are recommended to limit the viruses spread. the best way to prevent HMPV like any respiratory virus is throw simple hygiene practices such as,

Avoid touching your face with unwatged hands

Drinking lots of fluids to prevent dehydration

Avoid being around other people when you are they are sick

What's your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing

Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with other

Refrain from kissing others

Stay at home when you are sick Currently there is no specific antiviral therapy to treat HMPV and no vaccine to prevent HMPV. Medical care is supportive. Talk to your health care provider if you have any concerns about HMPV.