
What is Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause a spectrum of illnesses, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe lower respiratory tract infections, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia. It was first identified in 2001 so it’s not a new virus. Generally it causes mild infection, but younger children less than 5 years and those with pre-existing conditions (eg congenital heart disease, asthma or sickle cell anaemia) can be at higher risk for complications.
Possible symptoms of hMPV in Children:
hMPV symptoms can vary in severity, from mild to more severe:
Mild symptoms:
Runny nose
Cough
Nasal congestion
Sore throat
Low-grade fever
Severe symptoms, which require immediate medical attention:
Wheezing
Rapid or laboured breathing
Persistent high fever
Fatigue or lethargy
Loss of appetite or difficulty feeding
Symptoms of dehydration, such as reduced wet pampers, sunken fontanelle or dry lips and mouth
How Does hMPV Spread?
hMPV spreads through:
Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
Touching contaminated surfaces (e.g., toys, door handles) and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
Close contact with an infected person
In temperate countries, the virus tends to be most active during late winter to spring, similar to other seasonal respiratory viruses.
Prevention Strategies for hMPV:
While there is currently no vaccine for hMPV, you can take several steps to protect your child from infection:
1. Practice Hand Hygiene:
Teach children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.
2. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals:
Keep children away from individuals who are coughing, sneezing, or showing other signs of illness- Avoid crowded places, especially during peak respiratory virus season.
3. Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces:
Regularly clean toys, doorknobs, electronic devices, and other frequently touched surfaces with disinfectants.
4. Boost Your Child’s Immunity:
Provide a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to strengthen your child’s immune system- Ensure your child gets adequate sleep and stays hydrated.
5. Keep Sick Children Home:
If your child shows signs of illness, avoid sending them to school to prevent the spread of infection.
How can I help my child if they have caught hPMV?
Most cases of hMPV are mild and can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and symptom relief.
Here are some tips:
Encourage lots of fluids and rest. Offer extra breast feeds if your child is nursing, and the usual amount of formula for formula fed babies. For older children, encourage clear fluids, including oral rehydration solutions such as Gesol, Pedialyte or coconut water.
Give paracetamol as recommended on the package for fever or pain.
Try saline nose drops, one drop to each nostril, to help relieve nasal congestion.
Run a vaporizer or humidifier in the bedroom at night.
Turn off the air conditioner, especially at night.
Certain foods, like lemon, ginger and honey (in children older than1 year) may help relieve some of the cold symptoms.
Keep your child off school until they are better, and for kids that are old enough, encourage ‘safe coughs and sneezes’ ie into a tissue or handkerchief, with thorough handwashing after.
You should consult a doctor if your child:
Has difficulty breathing or wheezing.
Develops a high fever that doesn’t subside with medication like paracetamol.
Shows signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, no tears when crying, reduced wet pampers)
Appears excessively drowsy, irritable, or unresponsive.
Experiences worsening symptoms despite home care.
Children with underlying respiratory conditions, such as asthma, or weakened immune systems should be monitored closely, as they are at higher risk of complications.
Be well,
Paula

Dr Paula Robertson is a busy mom and a paediatrician with over twenty years' experience working with young people and their families. She is also a certified children's mindfulness teacher and Positive Discipline Parenting
coach. You can find out more at www.paulathedoctormom.com.
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