It is a cold or something more? A closer look at human metapneumovirus (hMPV)
You may not have heard of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) before, but this respiratory virus has been around for much longer than you’d think. First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, hMPV has likely been circulating in humans for decades.
It belongs to the same virus family as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and is a cause of upper respiratory infections, especially in young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
While hMPV symptoms can look a lot like the common cold, it’s gaining attention due to a rise in reported cases. So, what do you need to know to help you stay protected?
Symptoms & spreading
Research shows that in temperate areas, hMPV is most common in late winter and spring, often alongside other respiratory viruses like the flu, the common cold and RSV. However, it can circulate at lower levels and affect people year-round.
Like other respiratory viruses, hMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, meaning it’s passed on when an infected person coughs, sneezes or even speaks nearby. It can also linger on surfaces, making hand hygiene and regular cleaning important in helping to stop its spread.
Common symptoms of hMPV
For most people, hMPV symptoms are mild and resemble those of a common cold:
- Cough
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
Anyone can be affected; however, certain groups are more vulnerable, including:
- Young children – their immune systems are still developing
- Older adults – especially those with underlying health conditions
- People with weakened immune systems – like those undergoing certain medical treatment
Symptoms usually last a few days to a couple of weeks, but severe cases can lead to complications.
In some cases, hMPV can cause more serious issues like pneumonia or inflammation of the airways (bronchiolitis).
Severe symptoms may include wheezing, trouble breathing, chest pain, dizziness, extreme tiredness, dehydration or a fever that doesn’t go away. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical advice straightaway.
Should I be worried about hMPV?
While hMPV isn’t new, its recent rise in cases has raised questions about its impact. Research has shown that hMPV isn’t as severe as COVID-19, but it can still lead to hospitalisation in those at risk of complications.
hMPV vs other viruses
hMPV often gets mistaken for other respiratory infections like the common cold, RSV, flu or RSV as they share many of the same symptoms like fever, cough, and congestion.
As hMPV is a cold virus, people can manage their symptoms with over-the-counter products to help with pain, fever, a stuffy nose and cough. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can also help.
Most people feel better in a few days. If symptoms get worse, they should contact their health care provider. Those who are at higher risk should also speak to their doctor, even if their symptoms aren’t too bad.
How can I avoid hMPV?
Preventing hMPV is like preventing other respiratory illnesses. You can help reduce the risk by:
- Improving ventilation, like opening windows for better airflow
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water or using a hand sanitiser
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth without first cleaning your hands
If you're feeling unwell, you can help prevent spreading the virus by:
- Staying home when you're unwell
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing
- Improving ventilation in shared spaces
- Cleaning hands and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
How is hMPV treated?
As hMPV is a cold virus, symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medicines for pain, fever, stuffy nose and cough. Resting and staying hydrated also help the body recover.
Currently, there is no vaccination for hMPV to prevent the spread of this virus. There are also no approved antiviral medicines for hMPV, but most people start feeling better within a few days. If symptoms worsen or if you're at higher risk, it’s important to speak to your GP.
hMPV & pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, you may be wondering if hMPV poses a risk. While research on hMPV in pregnancy is limited, research suggests that the virus doesn’t appear to directly harm the baby.
However, like with flu or RSV, pregnant people should take extra precautions to avoid infection, as respiratory illnesses can sometimes be more severe during pregnancy.
If you develop symptoms while pregnant, it’s important to speak to your midwife or GP, especially if you have breathing difficulties or a high fever.
When should I see a doctor?
Most cases of hMPV clear up on their own with rest, fluids and over-the-counter products. However, you should seek medical advice if:
- Symptoms last longer than two weeks or seem to be getting worse
- You or your child have difficulty breathing or wheezing
- There’s a persistent high fever that doesn’t improve with medication
If you’re in a high-risk group, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and check in with your GP.
hMPV isn’t a cause for panic, but it’s good to stay informed, especially if you or a loved one are in a higher-risk category. While there’s no specific treatment or vaccination yet, simple prevention steps can help reduce your risk.
If you’re feeling unwell, listen to your body, rest up, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP if you have concerns.
Frequently asked questions
How serious is hMPV?
For most people, hMPV causes mild symptoms, like a cold or flu, and will go away on its own with rest and fluids. However, in some cases, it can lead to more serious illness, especially in young children, older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
It's important to stay aware of symptoms and seek medical advice if you or someone you know experiences severe symptoms like trouble breathing or chest pain.
How long does hMPV last
For most people, hMPV symptoms typically last around one to two weeks, like a cold or flu. However, in some cases, symptoms like coughing or fatigue may linger a bit longer.
It's important to rest, stay hydrated and manage your symptoms with over-the-counter medicines. If your symptoms persist or get worse, it’s important to speak to your GP.
How contagious is hMPV?
hMPV is contagious and can spread easily through droplets from coughing, sneezing or close contact with an infected person. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
To help reduce the risk, it's important to practice good hygiene, like washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with others when feeling unwell.
Is hMPV the same as a cold?
hMPV shares some similar symptoms with the common cold, like cough, runny nose and fever, but it's caused by a different virus. While both can cause mild illness, hMPV can sometimes lead to more serious respiratory issues, especially in vulnerable groups like young children, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems.
Can hMPV turn into pneumonia?
Yes, in some cases, hMPV can lead to more serious respiratory issues like pneumonia, especially with vulnerable groups like young children, older adults or those with weakened immune systems. If symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain or severe fatigue happen, it's important to speak to your GP.
