The respiratory pathogen known as human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is closely linked to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family and the Pneumovirinae subfamily. Since its initial discovery in the Netherlands in 2001, it has been acknowledged as the primary cause of acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) worldwide, especially in young children, the elderly, and people with impaired immune systems.
The virus is a single-stranded, encapsulated, negative-sense RNA virus with a genome that is roughly 13 kilobases long. The fusion (F) and attachment (G) glycoproteins, which are essential for viral entry and host cell attachment, are among the structural and non-structural protein molecules that it encodes.
The two primary genetic lineages of human metapneumovirus are A and B, each of which has sublineages that can co-circulate seasonally (A1, A2, B1, and B2).
The main methods of transmission are close person-to-person contact, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, and breathing droplets. Usually, the incubation phase lasts between three and six days. Similar to RSV seasonality in many areas, hMPV infections peak in late winter and early spring.
From minor infections of the upper respiratory system (like cough, congestion in the nasal passages, and sore throat) to serious lower respiratory tract illnesses (like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and flare-ups of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)), hMPV is clinically responsible for a wide range of respiratory conditions.
Second only to RSV, it is the leading cause of hospitalizations for pneumonia and bronchiolitis in newborns and young children. Immunocompromised individuals and elderly adults may also suffer from severe or protracted illness.
Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), which offers excellent sensitivity and specificity, is typically used to make the diagnosis. Although they are less frequently employed, other techniques include viral culture and antigen detection assays.
There isn't a licensed vaccination or certain antiviral treatment for hMPV at this time. The main focus of treatment is supportive care, which includes oxygen therapy, hydration, and figuring out solutions. Antiviral and vaccine development research is still in progress, with a number of interesting candidates being assessed.
All things considered, human metapneumovirus is a major and underappreciated global source of respiratory illness, greatly increasing the burden of respiratory diseases in children and the elderly. Effective preventative and control measures depend on ongoing study and surveillance.
