12 Mar Vanderbilt Physician Discusses Newly Recognized and Contagious Human Metapneumovirus

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Dr. Schaffner

Dr. William Schaffner M.D.
Professor of Medicine
Preventive Medicine, Health Policy
Division of Infectious Diseases
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Interview arranged with the assistance of the Infectious Disease Society of America.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the symptoms of HMPV? How is it transmitted? Are some individuals more susceptible to infection or more serious disease? 

Response: Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)  is a seasonal respiratory virus that has a worldwide distribution, causing late winter/early spring outbreaks in temperate zones.  It cocirculates with other seasonal respiratory viruses including influenza, COVID, and RSV.  Virtually all children have experienced infection by age 5; persons experience HMPV reinfections throughout life.  The virus is transmitted through close personal contact, most efficiently indoors.  Infection with HMPV can produce a spectrum of clinical symptoms ranging from a common cold to acute respiratory distress.  Persons at increased risk of severe disease include older persons and those with chronic medical conditions.

MedicalResearch.com: Why has HMPV become more prevalent?  Is it a new or newly recognized virus? 

Response: HMPV is not a new virus, but rather one that now is being newly recognized.  Testing for HMPV is becoming more widely available, so the recognition of HMPV infections is becoming more frequent.  “The more you look, the more you will find.”

MedicalResearch.com: Is prevention or treatment available? 

Response: An HMPV vaccine is not currently available, but vaccine scientists are working on one.  During the winter respiratory virus transmission season, one can try to avoid persons who are coughing and sneezing, and you can use a face mask when going into crowded indoor environments.  Of course, when ill yourself, isolate yourself and do not go to work or school.  No one wants to be the source of infection to others.

Treatment is symptomatic.  It is particularly important to maintain an adequate fluid intake to avoid dehydration.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report? 

Response: Readers can be reassured that there are a number of things they can do to avoid serious winter respiratory infections.  Vaccination against influenza and COVID are basic, along with vaccination against RSV – check with your doctor to see whether you are eligible.

In addition, should you become ill – especially if you are at increased risk of getting more severe disease – contact your doctor early.

No disclosures to report.

Reference:

CDC: About Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)

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Last Updated on March 12, 2026 by Marie Benz MD FAAD