Health Alert: Human Metapneumovirus

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been making headlines recently as respiratory infection cases surge in several regions around the world.  

While HMPV has been circulating for decades, recent surveillance data shows increasing cases, particularly during winter and early spring months in the northern hemisphere. HMPV is a very common disease that most people will contract at least once in their life. Usually, HMPV is mild and does not cause long-term issues, but it can lead to serious complications in older, younger or immunocompromised individuals.  

Symptoms of HMPV

In most healthy adults, HMPV causes symptoms similar to a common cold or mild flu. But in some cases, particularly in at-risk individuals, HMPV can progress to more severe lower respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. These may require medical attention or even hospitalisation. 

Protect yourself from HMPV

Unlike some other respiratory infections, there is currently no vaccine available for HMPV. To protect yourself from transmission, practice good hygiene and limit exposure to infected individuals. People who are at higher risk – that is, older and younger individuals, and individuals with complicating conditions – should be particularly vigilant during early winter and spring. 

What to do if you think you have HMPV

1. Monitor your symptoms carefully 
2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids  
3. Get adequate rest to help your body fight the infection 
4. Use over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and relieve discomfort 
5. Limit contact with others, especially vulnerable people, until your symptoms resolve 
6. Wear a mask if you must be around others to reduce transmission risk 

Call your doctor when you:

• Experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath  
• Have a fever that persists for more than 3 to 4 days  
• Have symptoms that worsen after initially improving  
• Are in a high-risk group  
• Are unsure about your symptoms or appropriate treatment 

Short-term outlook of HMPV

HMPV follows a seasonal pattern in temperate climates, with infections typically peaking during late winter and early spring. The virus often circulates alongside other respiratory pathogens like the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

Current surveillance data suggests that HMPV activity may be increasing in some regions. This is because of changes in immunity patterns after the COVID-19 pandemic. Most infections should resolve within one or two weeks, but community outbreaks can occur.  

Long-term outlook of HMPV

HMPV will continue to be a common cause of respiratory infections worldwide. Research into HMPV vaccines and antiviral treatments is ongoing, but these interventions are still years away from clinical use. For now, management is focused on prevention and supportive care. Luckily, HMPV infection does not cause long-term health problems for most people. 

Assistance you can rely on

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Sources

• WHO – Disease Outbreak News 
• WHO – Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection 
• American Lung Association – Learn About Human Metapneumovirus 
• ECDC Communicable Disease Threats Report, January 2025