DOCTORS SAY THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT VIRUS YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF

While the flu season has passed and weekly COVID-19 diagnoses are declining, another respiratory virus is a rising threat. Known as human metapneumovirus (hMPV), it can cause upper and lower respiratory illness.

Many of the illnesses caused by it are severe, especially for infants and older adults who may have underlying conditions. Its peak time is winter and spring when RSV and influenza are circulating.

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus, or hMPV, is a virus that causes respiratory infections in children. It was discovered in 2001 and is closely related to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Studies have shown that hMPV circulates each year predictably, peaking in winter and sometimes into spring. Like RSV, hMPV typically causes lower respiratory tract illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. In most cases, hMPV symptoms can be treated at home with plenty of fluids and pain relief. However, in some people, especial- ly those under age five and over 65, hMPV can cause more severe complications that require medical attention.

Although hMPV is common, doctors don’t often test for it. That’s partly because a positive result wouldn’t change the care they give patients. It’s also somewhat because hMPV differs from the viruses that healthcare professionals commonly test for, such as RSV and influenza. Its closest recent ancestor is a bird virus, making it an example of zoonosis: an animal pathogen that jumps to humans.

How do I get HMPV?

Infection with hMPV is spread by close contact with someone infected, usually through coughing or sneezing, which sprays droplets containing the virus into the air and onto nearby surfaces. The virus can also live on materials, such as tables, handrails, doorknobs, toys, and other objects, and people who touch contaminated items can then transfer the infection to their eyes, nose, or mouth.

Typically, hMPV results in a cold-like illness that goes away in a few days.

But it can lead to more serious respiratory infections in children and adults with weakened immune systems. These include bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and acute exacerbations of chronic lung diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Discovered in 2001, hMPV belongs to the paramyxoviridae family with other viruses that cause respiratory infections, such as measles, mumps, and RSV. However, hMPV is distinct from its cousin in that it doesn’t use the exact mechanism to overcome immunity that RSV does.

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

Most people will get a cough and runny nose when they have HMPV, but it can also lead to more severe symptoms like breathing difficulties. Kids and adults with underlying extreme conditions must immediately see their doctor.

The most common sign of hMPV is upper respiratory symptoms like

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