Introduction
The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is contagious and spreads at a faster rate, especially during winter and summer. It coincides with the flu season. The individuals who had close contact with patients affected by human metapneumovirus are affected. This disease has symptoms similar to the common cold but becomes severe for patients with underlying systemic conditions. The commonly affected age group is children below five years of age. The chance of recurrence is high in human metapneumovirus.
What Are the Causes of Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
The causes of human metapneumovirus are as follows;
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The main cause of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a viral infection. It is obtained while touching the other person's hands during gestures. It can also spread during a hug or kiss.
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The virus stays as an airborne particle when the infected person sneezes or coughs vigorously without covering the mouth.
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Using the handles of the door that is touched by the person affected with human metapneumovirus (hMPV) might spread the infection.
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The infection lasts on the surface or teacups or things that are used by the person affected by human metapneumovirus (hMPV).
What Are the Symptoms of Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
The symptoms of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) usually last for about two to four days. Consult the physician if the symptoms last for more than two weeks because severe symptoms can lead to life-threatening respiratory diseases.
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Asthma - The air passages become inflamed due to human metapneumovirus. It also tightens the breathing muscles and can result in severe flare-ups.
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Cough - The human metapneumovirus irritates the lining of the throat and produces sputum while coughing.
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Sore Throat - Some individuals have a sore throat along with trouble swallowing due to irritation.
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Runny Nose - The mucus present in fluid consistency oozes out of the nose due to viral infection. It occurs especially during cold weather. The nose becomes inflamed and red due to frequent sneezing.
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Nasal Congestion - The airflow is blocked due to nasal congestion. It occurs due to mucus secretion or due to inflammation in the tiny blood vessels present in the nose.
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Shortness of Breath - The patient is unable to take deep breaths and feels a tightness in the chest.
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Wheezing - The human metapneumovirus affects the upper respiratory tract and causes a striking whistling sound during exhalation. The sound is mild during inhalation.
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Gastrointestinal Problems - Some patients have nausea and diarrhea due to frequent human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infections.
What Are the Risk Factors for Human Metapneumovirus?
The various medical conditions that are at higher risk for human metapneumovirus infection are as follows;
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Lung Transplant - The individual with a lung transplant may have lung dysfunction due to rejection. In such cases, the human metapneumovirus affects the individual.
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Lung Tumor - The patient with lung cancer has a low immunity against infections. They are more prone to human metapneumovirus.
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) - The human metapneumovirus may irritate the bronchial tubes. So the air passages become inflamed and result in bronchitis. An individual with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) is frequently affected by human metapneumovirus (hMPV). It worsens the condition due to breathlessness.
What Are the Diagnostic Methods for Detecting Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
The healthcare professional will inquire about the past medical history and family history if the individual has serious symptoms. The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is detected in laboratory examination by the following methods;
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Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT - PCR) Test - It is the most frequently used test when compared to other diagnostic tests. The secretion is collected from the nasal cavity and sent to the lab for examination. It is used to detect the viral genome. It indicates the presence of infection, the extent of infection, and the proliferation of viral cells.
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Enzyme Immunoassay or Immunofluorescence Test - Swabs are used to collect the sample from the patient with febrile respiratory illness. The antibody binds to the viral antigen. Infected cells will show fluorescence phenomena during the illumination with ultraviolet light. This indicates the human metapneumovirus (hMPV).
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Bronchoscopy - It is a minimally invasive diagnostic technique. The airways affected by the human metapneumovirus can be visualized using a camera attached to the flexible tube. It is also used to clear the obstruction and helps with airflow. The surgeon collects a piece of lung tissue in serious conditions and uses it to detect respiratory ailments.
What Are the Treatment Procedures for Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus cannot be cured completely. But the symptoms can be prevented with certain treatment measures. It includes;
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Inhaler - The medical professional prescribes an inhaler with steroids to treat cold and wheezing. Oral Prednisone is given for asthmatic attacks in patients with human metapneumovirus.
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Oxygen Therapy - Oxygen therapy is provided for patients with serious respiratory ailments.
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Pain Relievers - In order to relieve pain, painkillers are given. The commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) is Acetaminophen.
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Decongestants - Asthmatic attacks cause pain and pressure near the sinus areas. It can be relieved by decongestants. Pseudoephedrine is used for human metapneumovirus.
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Rehydration - Keeping the body hydrated is essential because the infection can occur in the weak immune mechanism. So drink plenty of fluids or water and stay hydrated. If the patient is unable to drink the water due to nausea, then intravenous fluids (IV) are injected.
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Antipyretics - Ibuprofen is used to treat the fever associated with human metapneumovirus.
Conclusion
Elderly people above the age of 65 years and newborns are at higher risk for human metapneumovirus (hMPV). So it is better to take health check-ups regularly, at least once a year. Vaccinations can help to prevent human metapneumovirus. So all people, including infants and elders must vaccinate themselves within the appropriate time interval. Every individual should protect themselves from an infected person by staying away from them. Keep the hands free from viral infection by using disinfectant soaps. Develop a habit of cleaning the hands after arriving home. The infected person must stay inside a separate room. The tabletops and surfaces should be rinsed with disinfectants
