Here is a table detailing Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV):
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) |
| Discovered | 2001 |
| Virus Family | Paramyxoviridae |
| Genus | Metapneumovirus |
| Structure | Enveloped, single-stranded, negative-sense RNA virus |
| Primary Targets | Respiratory system |
| Affected Population | All ages, but severe cases typically in infants, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals |
| Symptoms | – Fever |
| – Cough | |
| – Nasal congestion | |
| – Sore throat | |
| – Shortness of breath | |
| Severe Symptoms | – Bronchiolitis |
| – Pneumonia | |
| – Respiratory distress | |
| Transmission | – Respiratory droplets |
| – Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or hands | |
| Incubation Period | Typically 4–6 days |
| Diagnosis | – PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing |
| – Antigen detection | |
| – Serological tests | |
| Treatment | – Supportive care (e.g., hydration, oxygen therapy if needed) |
| – No specific antiviral treatment currently available | |
| Prevention | – Hand hygiene |
| – Avoiding close contact with infected individuals | |
| – Disinfecting surfaces | |
| – Masks during outbreaks | |
| Seasonality | Typically peaks in late winter and early spring |
| Global Impact | A common cause of acute respiratory infections worldwide |
| Related Viruses | Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza |
Let me know if you’d like more details on any specific aspect!
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV): Current status in India
As of January 7, 2025, India has reported several cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections:
- Karnataka: Two cases have been identified in Bengaluru. The first involves a three-month-old female infant who was diagnosed at Baptist Hospital and has since been discharged. The second case is an eight-month-old male infant who tested positive on January 3, 2025, and is currently recovering. citeturn0search8
- Gujarat: A two-month-old boy from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, was diagnosed with HMPV in Ahmedabad. The infant is receiving appropriate medical care. citeturn0search2
- Tamil Nadu: Two cases have been reported in Chennai. Details about these cases are currently limited. citeturn0search7
In response to these cases, the Indian Ministry of Health has issued advisories emphasizing preventive measures such as maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and disinfecting surfaces. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have enhanced laboratory testing to detect and manage any further cases promptly.
It’s important to note that HMPV is not a new virus; it has been circulating globally, including in India, since its discovery in 2001. While it typically causes mild respiratory symptoms, it can lead to severe illness in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV; management focuses on supportive care.