Human Metapneumovirus – Clinical Virology

Abstract

Abstract Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an increasingly recognised cause of respiratory tract infections, particularly in children, the elderly, those with preexisting pulmonary diseases and immunocompromised hosts. The increasing availability of nucleic acid testing has revolutionised our understanding of the pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical and laboratory aspects of hMPV infection. Although hMPV‐specific antiviral therapy and vaccines are currently unavailable, it is anticipated that this will change in the near future. Key Concepts hMPV is a leading cause of acute respiratory tract infections. Infection with hMPV generally occurs in the first 2 years of life, and exposure to hMPV is near universal by the age of 5. hMPV infection is characterised by respiratory tract infection with wheeze. hMPV is associated with admission for exacerbations of obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart. Patients with haematological malignancies have a high mortality with hMPV. Diagnosis should be confirmed with NAT on nasopharyngeal specimens.