Human metapneumovirus

What Is It, Transmission, Signs and Symptoms, and More

Author: Anna Hernández, MD

Editors: Alyssa Haag, MD, Emily Miao, MD, PharmD, Kelsey LaFayette, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C

Illustrator: Abbey Richard, MSc

Modified: 23 Aug 2024

What is human metapneumovirus?

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus responsible for causing acute respiratory infections in people of all ages, but especially in children, older individuals, and people with weakened immune systems (e.g., people with HIV infection or cancer).  

Human metapneumovirus was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes other respiratory viruses like the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In the United States, hMPV is more likely to circulate during late winter and early spring when other respiratory illnesses, such as RSV and the flu, are common.  

How is human metapneumovirus transmitted?

Human metapneumovirus is transmitted through close contact with an infected person or a contaminated surface. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, they spread thousands of virus-containing droplets in the air. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or remain in the environment. Because the virus can survive on surfaces for a few hours, it is possible to come in contact with the virus by touching an infected surface, like a doorknob, and then become infected by touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth. 

What signs and symptoms does human metapneumovirus infection cause?

Signs and symptoms of human metapneumovirus infection typically begin after 3 to 6 days of coming in contact with the virus and include nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and coughing. If the infection becomes more severe, it can lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and fever. This is more common in young children, older individuals, and people with weakened immune systems, where hMPV can cause more severe infections, such as bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia. In people with a history of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hMPV infection may also result in acute exacerbations.  

How is a human metapneumovirus infection diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis of respiratory infections caused by human metapneumovirus is based on the medical history and a physical exam. Although further testing is often not needed since the resultant infection is typically self-limiting, additional tests may help identify the source of infection. Diagnostic testing for hMPV by swabbing epithelial cells in the nasopharynx and looking for the presence of viral antigens can be completed. Alternatively, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays can be used to determine the specific virus causing the infection.   

In most cases, symptoms of hMPV infection resolve without treatment after 2 to 5 days. Currently, there is no specific treatment for hMPV infection, and management generally involves rest, drinking plenty of water, and medications such as acetaminophen (i.e., paracetamol) or ibuprofen. In young children who develop bronchiolitis, treatment usually consists of supplemental oxygen and fluids to prevent dehydration.  

Washing hands often, wearing face masks, and avoiding contact with people who are sick are some of the most effective strategies to prevent the spreading of respiratory infections. In addition, cleaning contaminated surfaces (e.g., doorknobs and shared objects) may help stop the spread of hMPV. 

What are the most important facts to know about human metapneumovirus?

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus of the Pneumoviridae family that typically causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections during late winter and early spring It is transmitted through contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces. Signs and symptoms of hMPV infection are usually mild and resemble those of other upper respiratory infections, including a runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and fever. Diagnosis is usually clinical but testing for hMPV can be done through rapid viral antigen tests or polymerase chain reaction assays. There is no specific treatment for the infection, and management is generally supportive including rest, drinking plenty of water, and analgesic medications.

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