That lingering cough and fever might not be flu, COVID-19, or RSV. It could signal HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), a respiratory virus that’s becoming increasingly common yet often goes unrecognized.
While HMPV begins with familiar symptoms like cough and fever, it can rapidly progress to severe respiratory distress, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
At the Aether Health’s ER facilities, our emergency teams specialize in rapidly diagnosing and treating these respiratory infections. Let us help you understand what is HMPV and the key differences between HMPV and other respiratory viruses, and recognize when symptoms require immediate emergency care.
What Is HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus)?
Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes illness ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infection. The virus spreads through close contact with infected people, primarily through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.
Though HMPV was first identified in 2001, it’s currently making headlines due to the latest surge in cases in China, India, and parts of the United States. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported fewer than 50 HMPV-positive cases per week statewide this December.1
Like many respiratory viruses, HMPV shows strong seasonal patterns, with peak activity during late winter and spring in temperate climates.2 Due to this seasonal aspect, the risk of HMPV becoming a pandemic like Covid is rare. However, many cases go undiagnosed or are mistaken for other respiratory infections, which is why proper testing and diagnosis are crucial when experiencing severe respiratory symptoms.
What Are HMPV Virus Symptoms?
Common symptoms of HMPV include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Breathing problems
- Rash
It’s smart to get tested for HMPV if you’re showing severe respiratory virus symptoms that could develop into pneumonia or bronchitis.
How Does HMPV Symptoms Compare to COVID, Flu, & RSV?
Many respiratory viruses share similar symptoms, making it challenging to identify HMPV without proper testing. Here’s how HMPV differs from other common respiratory infections:
❖ HMPV vs. COVID-19:
Both viruses cause fever, cough, and respiratory distress. However, HMPV typically develops gradually with upper respiratory symptoms like nasal congestion, while COVID-19 often includes unique symptoms like loss of taste/smell. HMPV is also less transmissible and usually resolves on its own with milder symptoms.
❖ HMPV vs. Flu:
Both HMPV and flu cause fever, cough, fatigue, and body aches. The key difference is onset – flu symptoms appear suddenly and intensely, while HMPV symptoms develop gradually like a cold. Flu also typically causes more severe body aches and headaches than HMPV.
❖ HMPV vs. RSV:
HMPV and RSV belong to the same viral family (Pneumoviridae) and affect similar high-risk groups, especially infants and older adults. RSV typically causes more severe wheezing and breathing difficulties in young children, while HMPV often includes hoarseness and takes longer to progress to severe symptoms.
How Do You Test for HMPV?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is the most reliable test to detect HMPV. A medical professional uses a swab to collect a sample from your nose or throat. It detects HMPV within a few hours. Results are typically available within a few hours.
Most doctors don’t routinely test for HMPV in patients with mild cold or flu symptoms since treatment focuses on managing symptoms rather than the virus itself. Testing is usually recommended when symptoms become severe or when more precise diagnosis would affect treatment decisions.
The Aether Health’s emergency facilities offer on-site laboratory services to evaluate respiratory symptoms and determine appropriate next steps for diagnosis and treatment.
When to Seek Emergency HMPV Testing
If you have worsening symptoms, belong to a high-risk group, or are exposed to someone diagnosed with HMPV, go for emergency testing.
6 Emergency Warning Signs for HMPV
These are the emergency signs to watch for:
- Severe fever: A fever that’s over 103°F (40°C)
- Difficulty breathing: Wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain
- Bluish skin: Lips, nails, or skin appear bluish (cyanosis)
- Worsening health conditions: Other health conditions worsen
- Dehydration: Dizziness when standing up, or an inability to keep liquids down
- Confusion: Difficulty remembering names, dates, or days
4 High-Risk Groups
If the following individuals show even mild signs, seek immediate medical care. They are at higher risk of severe illness from HMPV:
- Young children: About 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in kids are caused by HMPV. Most will get it before age 5, and reinfections can also happen later.3
- Older adults: Those aged 65 and above are at an increased risk of HMPV, particularly if they have underlying conditions.
- People with health conditions: Chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, asthma, or other health issues make them susceptible to severe HMPV.
- Immunocompromised people: Hmpv can be fatal in people with weak immune systems such as those with thalassemia, HIV, or on dialysis.4
9 Tips To Protect Yourself and Others From HMPV
Prevention is the best way to avoid HMPV. Here’s how you can reduce your risk and protect those around you:
- Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. Also, keep a sanitizer with you and apply it often.
- Avoid touching your face: If you touch your face a lot, try to break the habit. It helps lower the chance of spreading germs from surfaces to your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Limit exposure: Wear a mask, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas. Stay at least six feet away from sick individuals.
- Stay home when sick: Isolate yourself to prevent the spreading of the virus.
- Get vaccinated: While there’s no vaccine for HMPV, staying up-to-date on COVID-19 and flu shots helps prevent co-infections and reduce the overall burden on your immune system.
- Eat a balanced diet: Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support immune health.
- Get enough sleep: A well-rested body is better equipped to fight infections.
Final Thoughts
It’s winter and respiratory illnesses are on the rise. With these protective measures, you can keep yourself and others safe. If you’re in a high-risk group or your respiratory symptoms worsen, go to the nearest reliable emergency room immediately.
Stay informed. Stay protected. And don’t delay testing if you’re down with HMPV symptoms.
FAQs
1. Can HMPV turn into a pandemic?
No! HMPV is unlikely to become a pandemic because it doesn’t spread as fast as contagious viruses like COVID-19. Most people are exposed to it as kids, so they build up some immunity. On top of that, HMPV mostly shows up in late winter and spring. This seasonality helps reduce its year-round transmission.
2. How long does HMPV recovery take?
Recovery from minor HMPV cases usually takes a week while high-risk groups may take 2 weeks or more. Fever gets better in a few days, but tiredness or a small cough may last longer.
3. How long does HMPV last in adults?
HMPV symptoms typically last 7-10 days in healthy adults. Most people start feeling better after a week, but cough and fatigue may persist for up to 2 weeks.
4. When to get tested for HMPV?
If you’re in a high-risk group or if your flu symptoms worsen, you should get tested. Healthcare professionals should consider HMPV testing during winter and spring when this virus is common.
