Human Metapneumovirus: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen belonging to the family Paramyxoviridae and the genus Metapneumovirus. It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, but retrospective studies have shown that the virus has been circulating in human populations since the 1950s. hMPV primarily causes respiratory tract infections, affecting individuals of all age groups, with the highest incidence in young children, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised patients.Epidemiologically, hMPV is distributed worldwide and shows seasonal variation, with outbreaks commonly occurring during late winter and spring, similar to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The virus is transmitted mainly through respiratory droplets, direct person-to-person contact, or contaminated surfaces. Reinfection can occur throughout life due to incomplete or waning immunity. Globally, hMPV contributes significantly to cases of bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma exacerbations, accounting for a considerable proportion of hospitalizations due to viral respiratory diseases in children.

Autorentext

Ms. Kalyani U. Chande is an Assistant Professor at Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Pharmacy, Akurdi, Pune, with over five years of academic experience. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Pharmacognosy from Amrutvahini College of Pharmacy, Sangamner. Her research focuses on the pharmacognostic evaluation of natural products.