What is Microbiology - Human Metapneumovirus Infection

​Human Metapneumovirus Infection 


Human metapneumovirus is a family member of paramyxovirus. Human metapneumovirus is detected via polymerase chain reaction assay.

Human metapneumovirus infection mostly affect infants and present with bronchiolitis and pneumonia as well as otitis media. Human metapneumovirus will infect the epithelial cells which line the respiratory tract. 

Patient mostly children may present with symptoms and signs such as fever, cough, rhinorrhea, wheezing and shortness of breath. 

Severe human metapneumovirus infection may occur in elderly and immunocompromised patient. 

The route of transmission is via respiratory droplets and commonly occur in the months of winter.