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This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause symptoms similar to the common cold. It was first identified in 2001, but it is believed to have been circulating in human populations for decades. hMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).   

Symptoms:

hMPV primarily affects the respiratory system and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe:   

• Mild Symptoms:

  • Runny nose   
    
    
  • Cough   
    
    
  • Sore throat   
    
    
  • Fever   
    
    
  • Sneezing   
    
    
  • Headache   
    
    
  • Muscle aches   
    
    

• Severe Symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing   
    
    
  • Wheezing   
    
    
  • Rapid breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)   
    
    

Transmission:

hMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, which are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land on surfaces and remain infectious for several hours. You can become infected by:   

• Inhaling droplets from an infected person
• Touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes

Risk Factors:

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing severe hMPV infections:   

• Children under 2 years old
• Adults over 65 years old   
  
  
• People with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, or organ transplantation)   
  
  
• People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease   
  
  

Complications:

In severe cases, hMPV can lead to:

• Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs)   
  
  
• Pneumonia   
  
  
• Worsening of asthma or COPD   
  
  

Prevention:

There is currently no vaccine to prevent hMPV infection. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk of infection:   

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public places and before eating or preparing food.   
  
  
• Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.   
  
  
• Stay home when you are sick.   
  
  
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, not your hand.   
  
  
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, countertops, and toys.   
  
  

Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for hMPV infection. However, your doctor may recommend supportive care measures to relieve symptoms, such as:   

• Rest
• Fluids
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)   
  
  

In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for oxygen therapy or other supportive care.

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