Human Metapneumovirus was first discovered in 2001 and can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in all age groups. However, like many respiratory viruses, it can cause a more severe illness in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised people. Human Metapneumovirus is the second leading cause of lower respiratory infections in children (behind RSV). Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period is usually 3-6 days and the illness may last longer depending on the severity of the illness. Human Metapneumovirus circulates in a very distinct cycle of late winter and spring. Transmission occurs through exposure to infected secretions from coughing, sneezing, or close personal contact with an infected person, as well as touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.
Human Metapneumovirus is an enveloped negative-sense RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae subfamily of Pneumoviridae. This virus is generally about 150 nm in diameter with F and G glycoproteins that are used to attach to the host cell wall. This virus enters the host cell through fusion.
