Doctors closely monitor little-known hMPV respiratory virus as cases rise

RALEIGH, NC (WTVD) — Doctors are keeping a closer eye on a little-known virus this season.

According to CDC reports, cases of human metapneumovirus or hMPV have increased this spring.

CDC Officials Report hMPV cases increased by 36% compared to the average this season, especially for young children and the elderly.

“It’s one of many respiratory viruses that we see, like influenza and RSV,” explained Dr. David Weberprofessor and medical director of infectious diseases at UNC Health.

“The main symptoms are cough, runny nose, fever. It is also likely to give you wheezing, especially if you have underlying asthma.

And, unlike most, but not all, respiratory viruses, you can have a persistent cough and wheeze that can last for several weeks, instead of just, you know, getting better after three, four, or five days.” , Weber said.

Weber says hMPV usually goes away on its own, but for vulnerable people, the spike is a reminder to stay alert.

“If you develop respiratory symptoms, then I think you should ideally test yourself for COVID,” Weber explained. “Because we have specific therapies there.”

“We have oral medications, for example, last week Paxlovid, our primary oral medication, got full FDA approval. And, certainly, if you continue to be symptomatic, see your health care provider for you get tested for the flu because, again, we have specific therapies for that, especially if you have a weakened immune system, if you’re very young or very old.”

There is no antiviral therapy to treat hMPV and no vaccine is available. Weber says that over-the-counter cold medicines at home can be used to treat symptoms, but you should see a health care provider if symptoms worsen.

Weber adds that with hMPV and other viruses, lessons learned from the pandemic can help prevent the spread.