What is HMPV? What we know about the respiratory virus with no cure surging across the US
WVTM • • health
Key Points:
- Cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus related to RSV, are rising in several U.S. states, with high concentrations detected in California cities like San Francisco and Sacramento, and increased positivity reported in New Jersey emergency rooms.
- HMPV causes respiratory illness across all ages, especially impacting young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, with symptoms including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, which can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
- The virus spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, close personal contact, and touching contaminated surfaces, typically circulating in the U.S. from winter through spring.
- Potential complications include asthma attacks, ear infections
