Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion. It spreads through droplets, contaminated surfaces, or close contact. Like COVID-19, HMPV is a respiratory virus that affects people of all ages. The virus can be especially dangerous for younger children, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Those infected with the HMPV virus could suffer from symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. According to the US CDC, clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. Human metapneumovirus most often causes symptoms similar to a cold, but some people can get very sick. You’re more likely to get severely sick the first time you get HMPV, which is why young kids have a greater risk for serious illness.
