Much like the flu or common cold, the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, and a runny nose. Here is what you need to know about HMPV, including how to prevent its spread.
What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
It is a common respiratory virus that produces similar symptoms as the common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, or sore throat. Additional symptoms may include fever, shortness of breath, or rashes.
People of all ages can be affected, but it poses a greater risk to young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised or those with weakened immune systems, leading to more severe illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchitis. As with other respiratory diseases, HMPV is more common during periods of colder weather.
How does HMPV spread?
HMPV is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands, or through indirect contact like touching objects or surfaces an infected person may have interacted with.
What is the treatment for HMPV?
There is currently no known antiviral therapy for HMPV, but its symptoms can be managed by taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as decongestants for cold, antitussives for cough, and antipyretics such as paracetamol for fever. For severe cases, consult your doctor immediately for the best treatment plan.
How can the spread of HMPV be prevented?
HMPV virus can be prevented by:
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water
- Covering your nose and mouth when sneezing
- Wearing a mask or staying at home when you are sick
Is HMPV something to worry about, like COVID-19?
Unlike COVID-19, HMPV is not a novel virus. Health experts say it is not something that the public should worry about. Children are at higher risk of developing serious illness because one is more likely to get severely sick during their first time contracting the virus. Unless one is immunocompromised, subsequent infections are likely to bring milder cold-like symptoms.
Understanding HMPV and taking steps to protect ourselves can help reduce its impact, especially for those most vulnerable. By practicing good hygiene, staying informed, and seeking medical care when needed, we can keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov and UNILAB Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22443-human-metapneumovirus-hmpv
https://www.webmd.com/lung/what-is-human-metapneumovirus
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23vjg7v7k0o
