What to Know About Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that can cause cold-like symptoms. Many people recover on their own, but HMPV can lead to serious illness, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems.

This virus spreads more often in late winter and early spring. It’s one of many viruses, like RSV or the flu, that can cause breathing problems.

What’s HMPV?

HMPV affects the lungs and airways. It can cause:

• Mild symptoms, such as a runny nose or cough
• Serious illness, such as pneumonia or trouble breathing

Some people may feel like they just have a bad cold. But for others, especially babies born early, adults 65 and older, or people with other health problems, HMPV can be dangerous.

How it spreads

HMPV spreads the same way as many other viruses, including:

• Breathing in droplets from someone who’s sick
• Touching your nose, eyes, or mouth after touching a surface contaminated with the virus
• Close contact, like hugging or sharing utensils, with someone who’s sick with the virus

Washing your hands often and avoiding people who are sick can help stop the virus from spreading.

HMPV Symptoms

HMPV shares symptoms with other respiratory illnesses, so getting the right diagnosis is important.
In more serious cases, symptoms can include:

• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Chest pain
• Not wanting to eat or drink (especially in young children)

Incubation Period and Duration

HMPV usually takes about three to five days to cause symptoms after you’re exposed. Most people recover in about seven to 10 days.

For older adults or people with weakened immune systems, the infection may last longer and can be more severe.

Who’s most at risk?

Anyone can get HMPV, but it’s more likely to cause serious illness in:

• Babies and toddlers
• Adults 65 and older
• People with asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions
• People with weakened immune systems

Can HMPV be dangerous?

Yes. In some people, HMPV can cause pneumonia or lead to hospitalization. This is more likely in people in high-risk groups.

HMPV can also:

• Trigger asthma attacks
• Worsen COPD symptoms
• In rare cases, lead to respiratory failure or sepsis

How’s it treated?

There’s no specific medicine to cure HMPV. Most people get better with:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Over-the-counter medicine for symptoms like fever or cough

In serious cases, a person may need:

• Oxygen therapy
• Hospital care for breathing support
• Extra fluids or monitoring

How’s it diagnosed?

To diagnose HMPV, a doctor can do a simple test using a nose or throat swab. The sample is sent to a lab to check for the virus. These tests help doctors confirm if a person has HMPV or another virus, such as RSV or the flu.

How to prevent it

You can help protect yourself and others from HMPV by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Using hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Staying home when you’re sick
• Not sharing food, drinks, or utensils

At Jackson Health System, our teams are trained to care for patients with all types of respiratory illnesses, including HMPV. We’re here to help you breathe easier, every step of the way.