There is a new virus you should be aware of. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV). What you should know

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV).


Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes an upper respiratory infection (like a cold). It is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in the winter and early spring, similar to RSV and the flu.


Anyone can be infected with HMPV, but it is most common in children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Most people get HMPV before they turn 5. You can get HMPV again, but symptoms are usually mild after your first infection.


HMPV is spread through contact with respiratory secretions from an infected person, such as through coughing or sneezing. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as toys or doorknobs.


Symptoms of HMPV usually develop within 3-6 days of exposure to the virus. The most common symptoms include:


Cough

Fever

Runny or stuffy nose

Sore throat

Wheezing

Shortness of breath


Most cases of HMPV are mild and go away on their own within a week or two. However, in some cases, HMPV can lead to more serious illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. This is especially true for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.


There is no specific treatment for HMPV. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. This may include over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and pain, and fluids to stay hydrated. In some cases, hospitalized patients may need supplemental oxygen or other supportive care.


There are a few things you can do to help prevent the spread of HMPV:


Wash your hands often with soap and water.


Avoid close contact with people who are sick.


Stay home from work or school if you are sick.


Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.


Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.


If you have any concerns about HMPV, please talk to your doctor.


References


Future Vaccines


There are several companies working on a vaccine against human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Two companies, Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), are currently in Phase 3 clinical trials of their HMPV vaccines.


Pfizer's vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened form of the HMPV virus. GSK's vaccine is a subunit vaccine, which means that it contains only certain proteins from the HMPV virus.


Both vaccines have shown to be safe and effective in early clinical trials. The Phase 3 clinical trials are currently underway to confirm these results and to determine how long the vaccines last.


If the Phase 3 clinical trials are successful, the HMPV vaccines could be licensed and available to the public within the next few years.


In addition to the vaccines from Pfizer and GSK, there are several other HMPV vaccine candidates in development. These vaccines are in various stages of preclinical and clinical development.


The development of an HMPV vaccine is a priority for public health officials, as HMPV is a leading cause of respiratory illness in children and older adults. A vaccine could help to reduce the number of hospitalizations and deaths caused by HMPV.


Unlikely Buddha 2023



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