A doctor has given a strong warning about a lesser-known virus called Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which can cause serious breathing problems and even death. There’s no vaccine for this virus, and it’s especially dangerous for children and older adults.
In an interview with the Daily Star, Dr. Samer Sader from Carle Health in the US explained that hMPV could be fatal for about 1 in 10 young children who catch it. Unlike the flu or COVID-19, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for hMPV.
Dr. Sader also mentioned that people with cancer treatments, autoimmune disorders, or serious lung diseases like emphysema or COPD are at higher risk from this virus.
He added: “It’s all about keeping an eye out for problems. We ask patients things like, ‘Is your lung disease getting worse? Do you need more medication? Are you getting pneumonia on top of it?’.
“We also check if they’re having trouble because they’re not eating or drinking enough,” according to the Express.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that hMPV can cause infections in the upper and lower parts of the lungs. It can affect people of all ages but is especially common in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
The four most common symptoms of Human Metapneumovirus are:
Cough
Fever
Stuffy nose
Shortness of breath
These symptoms can make it easy to confuse hMPV with a less serious illness. However, if the infection gets worse, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. This can cause chest congestion, wheezing, and a cough that brings up yellow or green mucus.
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) usually spreads between winter and spring. The CDC warns that it can be spread through:
Coughing and sneezing
Close contact, like touching or shaking hands
Touching objects or surfaces with the virus on them, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
To know for sure if you’re infected, a nose and throat swab test is needed. Right now, there’s no specific medicine to treat hMPV, so care focuses on easing symptoms.
You can help stop the spread by:
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Not touching your face with unwashed hands
Staying away from people who are sick.
If you have cold-like symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands properly, avoid sharing cups and utensils, and stay home if you’re sick. Seek medical help right away if your symptoms get worse.
