Human Metapneumovirus

About Human Metapneumovirus:

• It is a respiratory virus that causes mild infections similar to that caused by a common cold.
• It was first identified by scientists in 2001 which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, of which respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles and mumps are also members.
• It can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections and is generally seen in winter and early spring.
• Children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the infection and to developing complications from it.
• Signs and symptoms
  • Symptoms can resemble those caused by a common cold. They include a cough, runny or blocked nose, sore, throat, fever and wheezing.
  • The estimated incubation period is three to six days.
  • In most people, the illness goes away on its own within a few days, with rest and supportive care at home.
  • In a few people however, complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia may arise, requiring medical care.
• Transmission
  • It spreads through contact with an infected person or touching objects that have the virus on them.
  • This can be through: secretions from coughs, sneezes; close contact with someone who has the infection such as shaking hands, hugging; touching a doorknob or a phone or a keyboard that may be contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes.
• Treatment: There is no vaccine and there is no specific antiviral to treat HMPV. Most people require over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and pain, possibly with a decongestant. Antibiotics will not work for HMPV.

Q1: What is Pneumonia?

It is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

Source: TH

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