Warm and humid weather is conducive to infection with human metapneumovirus.
As the seasons change and the temperature fluctuates, this is often when human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is prevalent. Besides affecting respiratory health, the virus can also invade the ear canal and gastrointestinal tract, so it should not be taken lightly.
Attacks on systems other than the respiratory tract
Paediatrician Dr. Chan Yan-wing stated that human metapneumovirus is a very common respiratory tract infection caused by a filterable virus. Its transmission routes are the same as those for colds and flu, spreading through contact with droplets, coughs, and sneezes. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract but can also damage other organs such as the ear canals and the gastrointestinal tract. Although children are more susceptible to human metapneumovirus, adults, especially the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, are also easily infected.
If a virus attacks young children, in addition to the respiratory system, they may also develop otitis media and gastrointestinal discomfort. If children are particularly prone to allergies, greater attention needs to be paid to the health and stability of their airways, as hMPV can trigger allergic coughs, which can easily lead to asthma attacks.
Extremely similar to the RSV virus
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that spreads mainly through droplets, invading the respiratory tract and lungs. It is one of the leading causes of respiratory diseases worldwide, particularly common in infants and the elderly. Similar to the symptoms of RSV, human metapneumovirus invades the trachea, causing symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and bronchitis. It can also lead to pneumonia, similar to upper and lower respiratory tract infections caused by other viruses.
In children with hMPV, some will exhibit symptoms of varying severity, such as fever, cough, runny nose, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath. Some cases may also present with middle ear infections, diarrhoea, vomiting, rash, and febrile seizures.
Who is at higher risk?
The peak season for human metapneumovirus is generally from winter to spring, and people are particularly susceptible to infection during damp weather with significant temperature variations due to seasonal changes.
The incubation period is approximately 3 to 6 days, with most patients recovering within 7 to 10 days. However, as reinfection is possible after recovery, children and the elderly need to be particularly careful.
Dr. Chan stressed that particular attention should be paid to infants and young children, as they are in the oral stage and tend to put things in their mouths. They are also more susceptible to infection at school and in kindergarten, because children have insufficient self-care and hygiene awareness. Touching their mouths and eyes after handling public items without washing their hands at school can greatly increase the risk of infection.
Is there no cure?
If you suspect a child has contracted hMPV, what should be done at home? Dr. Chan stated that when relevant symptoms appear, and it is not yet clear whether it is an hMPV infection,
When this happens, the caregiver should keep the patient immobilised and take them to see a doctor as soon as possible. The patient should also be given plenty of fluids. Because hMPV is a viral infection, there is currently no specific treatment, and antibiotics are ineffective against these viruses.
However, seeking medical attention as soon as possible allows for supportive treatment. Doctors can monitor the child's symptoms, complications, etc., prescribe appropriate medication, and alleviate the condition in a timely manner.
Prevention tips
As there is currently no vaccine available to prevent hMPV, parents should teach their children to pay attention to personal hygiene. Here are basic and effective prevention methods:
Wash your hands frequently.
Avoid touching your mouth and nose frequently with your hands.
• Wear a face mask when necessary, especially in crowded environments.
To boost the immune system, parents should ensure their children get enough rest and maintain a balanced diet daily.
Source: Headline Daily 2025-05-08
