Little-known virus spreading rapidly on West Coast, experts warn
Fox News • • general
Key Points:
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a highly contagious respiratory virus related to RSV, is currently widespread on the West Coast, especially in Northern California, with wastewater data showing elevated levels since January.
- HMPV symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, with severe illness risks for young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, potentially leading to pneumonia and other complications.
- The virus can exacerbate chronic lung conditions such as COPD and cause rare effects like asthma attacks, bronchiolitis, ear infections, and croup.
- HMPV spreads through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces, primarily circulating from winter through spring, with no available vaccine
