HMPV virus symptoms: On Monday, India reported two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. HMPV is a virus that causes flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion.
According to Cleveland Clinic, HMPV causes upper respiratory infections. However, it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring.
It is noteworthy that most people get HMPV before they turn 5. You can get HMPV again, but usually symptoms are usually mild after your first infection.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
Symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:
- Cough.
- Fever.
- Runny or stuffy nose.
- Sore throat.
- Wheezing.
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- Rash.
How HMPV is transmitted?
According to Cleveland Clinic, HMPV spreads through direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated with the virus. For instance:
Coughing and sneezing.
Shaking hands, hugging or kissing.
Touching surfaces or objects like phones, door handles, keyboards or toys.
What are the complication of HMPV?
Sometimes HMPV causes complications like:
- Bronchiolitis.
- Bronchitis.
- Pneumonia.
- Asthma or COPD flare-ups.
- Ear infection (otitis media).
How to prevent HMPV infection?
You can reduce your risk of getting HMPV and other infectious diseases by:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
- Avoid being around other people when you or they are sick with a cold or other contagious diseases.
- Wear a mask if you’re sick and can’t avoid being around others.
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth.
- Don’t share food or eating utensils with others.