Current Activity
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a highly contagious virus, is currently seeing elevated activity across the United States.
Data from Wastewater SCAN indicates high levels of HMPV in Northern California, specifically in areas including San Francisco, Marin, Vallejo, Napa, Novato, Santa Rosa, Sacramento, and Davis. The virus sharply peaked in January and remained elevated into early March, although the seasonal winter wave is now declining.
Additionally, wastewater data shows a sharp rise in HMPV in the Midwest and Northeast regions.
About HMPV
HMPV belongs to the same viral family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and was first identified in 2001, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is a single-stranded RNA virus, similar to influenza and COVID-19.
The National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS), a CDC program, monitors wastewater samples to detect viral and bacterial infection patterns in communities.
Symptoms and Risks
Common symptoms in healthy children and adults include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
Individuals at higher risk for severe illness, such as pneumonia, include young children, older adults, and those who are immunocompromised.
HMPV is associated with over 650,000 hospitalizations worldwide annually.
Rare complications of HMPV can include asthma attacks, wheezing, breathing difficulties, bronchiolitis (small airway infection), ear infections, croup, and fever. The virus can also exacerbate chronic lung conditions like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Transmission and Prevention
HMPV is transmitted through close personal contact, coughing, sneezing, and touching contaminated surfaces. It is most frequently reported during the winter and spring months.
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for HMPV.
Diagnosis can be made through testing by a healthcare provider, and supportive care involves hydration and rest. The CDC recommends general prevention methods to help control its spread.