Metapneumovirus

 

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Human Metapneumovirus has recently been identified as an important cause of respiratory illness especially in children.

There are two genotypes.

 

Transmission

Transmission is through respiratory route.

Incubation period- 2 to 6 days.

 

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Clinical presentations

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Mainly affects children.

Mild fever.

Sneezing, running nose.

Cough.

Sore throat.

Shortness of breath.

Respiratory wheezing.

Exacerbation of asthma.

 

Other complications include

Ø      Otitis media

Ø      Bronchiolitis

Ø      Pneumonitis

 

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Investigation

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Diagnostic tests

Nasopharyngeal / nasal aspirate or swab for Metapneumovirus PCR

Bronchioalveolar lavage (BAL) for PCR

 

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Treatment 

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Supportive.

 

Care of Hospitalised patients

Some patient may require ventilation.

Respiratory isolation is important to control person to person transmission in the hospital

Antiviral (Ribavirin) can be given to immunocompromised patients. Fatality in bone marrow transplant patients has been reported.

 

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Prevention 

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There is no vaccine.

 

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