What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common cold virus that usually causes mild symptoms but can be severe for some people. It spreads through respiratory droplets when a sick person coughs or sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face. Part of the Pneumoviridae family, HMPV was discovered in 2001 and is found worldwide.

How Does HMPV Spread?

HMPV spreads easily through several pathways, including:

• Respiratory droplets: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, they release droplets that can become airborne. These droplets can then be inhaled by people nearby.
• Surface contamination: Droplets can settle on surfaces, where the virus may remain active for hours.
• Indirect transmission: When someone touches contaminated objects (e.g., doorknobs, handles, shared items) and then touches their face, especially the nose, mouth, or eyes, they may unknowingly introduce the virus into their body.

How can HMPV be Prevented?

To reduce the spread of HMPV, it is important to:

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent droplets from becoming airborne.
• Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Maintain respiratory hygiene to prevent the virus from spreading, especially in crowded or communal spaces.

How Does HMPV Lead to Pneumonia, and Who Is Most at Risk?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus known for causing mild to severe respiratory illnesses. However, in certain cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia. Understanding the progression from an HMPV infection to pneumonia involves recognising the risk factors and the virus’s impact on the respiratory system.

HMPV primarily targets the upper and lower respiratory tracts. Initially, symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, and sore throat mimic a common cold. However, in vulnerable individuals, the virus can spread deeper into the lungs, causing inflammation and fluid buildup. This can result in pneumonia, characterised by difficulty breathing, chest pain, and persistent fever.

Those at higher risk of developing pneumonia from HMPV include young children ages under five, senior citizens, individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, and those with weakened immune systems. In these groups, the body’s ability to fight off the virus is compromised, leading to severe respiratory distress. Identifying early symptoms and understanding these risks is critical for timely intervention.

What are the Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges of HMPV-Related Pneumonia?

Diagnosing and treating pneumonia caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) presents unique challenges due to the virus’s nonspecific symptoms and the lack of targeted antiviral therapies. 

HMPV symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, often overlap with other respiratory infections, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This makes distinguishing HMPV as the underlying cause of pneumonia difficult without advanced diagnostic tools. Laboratory methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, can confirm the presence of HMPV, but these tests are not always readily available in clinical settings. As a result, many cases are diagnosed based on symptoms alone, which may delay appropriate management.

Treatment for HMPV-related pneumonia focuses on supportive care rather than direct antiviral intervention. This may include oxygen therapy, hydration, and medications to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms. Severe cases may require hospitalisation, particularly for individuals at higher risk of complications. However, the absence of specific antiviral drugs for HMPV limits treatment options, highlighting the need for research into targeted therapies.

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

If you suspect you may be experiencing symptoms of HMPV, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention to prevent complications. Do not wait for the condition to worsen. Book an appointmentto receive personalised care and ensure a swift, effective treatment plan. Your health and well-being are our top priority, and we are here to guide you every step of the way toward a full recovery. Schedule your appointment via our website or download the MyHealth360 app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.