7 Major Symptoms of HMPV Virus: How to Recognize the Signs

Dr. Janvi Bhesaniya

Dentist

7 Major Symptoms of HMPV Virus: How to Recognize the Signs

HMPV is a respiratory virus first discovered in 2001. It primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tract. It is particularly common in winter and spring months, similar to other seasonal viruses like RSV and the flu.

While most cases are mild, the virus can lead to more severe conditions like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure in vulnerable populations.

HMPV Symptoms

In many cases, HMPV symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory infections like the common cold. These symptoms generally last for a few days to a week and tend to resolve on their own.

Common HMPV Symptoms Include:

Runny nose – Excess nasal discharge, often with congestion.
Cough – Dry or productive, can cause irritation in the throat.
Sore throat – Pain or scratchiness in the throat, usually mild.
Fatigue – Feeling of tiredness, often with low energy.
Headache – Mild to moderate pain in the head, often due to nasal congestion.
Sneezing – Frequent sneezing due to nasal irritation.

These common symptoms usually resolve within 7-10 days without requiring any medical intervention.

Severe Symptoms of HMPV

In some individuals, HMPV can lead to more severe respiratory issues, requiring medical attention. This is particularly true for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Severe Symptoms Include:

Wheezing – High-pitched sound during breathing, usually when exhaling.
Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing or feeling like not getting enough air.
Chest pain – Sharp or tight pain in the chest, often associated with breathing difficulty.
Bluish skin or lips – Cyanosis, indicating insufficient oxygen levels in the blood.
Persistent high fever – Fever that doesn't reduce with over-the-counter medication.
Rapid breathing – Increased breathing rate (tachypnea).

4. Symptoms in Children and Adults

HMPV Symptoms in Children:

HMPV is known to cause severe respiratory illnesses in infants and young children, especially those under 2 years old. In children, symptoms may include:

Runny nose
Coughing
Fever
Wheezing
Poor feeding
Irritability

HMPV Symptoms in Adults and the Elderly:

In adults, symptoms are usually milder, resembling a cold or flu. However, older adults and those with chronic conditions may experience:

Fatigue
Headache
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Wheezing

5. Who to Consult for Specific Symptoms

Certain symptoms may require consultation with a healthcare professional. Below is a list of symptoms and which healthcare provider to consult.

Symptom	Consult with
Runny nose, cough, sore throat	Primary Care Doctor
Persistent high fever	Pediatrician (children) or General Practitioner (adults)
Wheezing, difficulty breathing	Pulmonologist or Emergency Room (ER)
Bluish skin or lips	Emergency Care/ER
Chest pain, shortness of breath	Cardiologist or Emergency Room
Severe fatigue or weakness	Primary Care Doctor

Remedies for HMPV Symptoms

While HMPV doesn’t have a specific antiviral treatment, various remedies can alleviate the symptoms and help in recovery. Below are someremedies for common symptoms.

Symptom	Remedy
Runny nose	Use saline nasal spray, stay hydrated, apply a humidifier.
Cough	Drink warm tea with honey, use cough syrups, avoid irritants.
Sore throat	Gargle warm salt water, drink warm fluids, use throat lozenges.
Fatigue	Rest, drink fluids, eat nutritious foods to boost energy.
Headache	Use over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen), drink water, rest in a dark room.
Wheezing	Use a bronchodilator inhaler (if prescribed), stay in a well-ventilated area.
Shortness of breath	Seek medical attention immediately, oxygen therapy if prescribed.

Recovery Time for Different Symptoms

The recovery time for HMPV varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual's health. Below is an estimated recovery timeline for common symptoms:

Symptom	Estimated Recovery Time
Runny nose	3-7 days
Cough	7-10 days or longer if persistent
Sore throat	3-5 days
Fatigue	5-7 days
Headache	1-3 days
Wheezing	7-10 days or more if severe
Shortness of breath	Varies (depends on severity)

Percentage of Affected Individuals by Symptoms

Below is a rough estimate of the percentage of individuals affected by each symptom based on studies of HMPV infection.

Symptom	Percentage of Affected Individuals
Runny nose	60-70%
Cough	80-85%
Sore throat	50-60%
Fatigue	40-50%
Headache	35-45%
Wheezing	20-30% (more common in children)
Shortness of breath	15-25% (more common in elderly)

Drlogy Complete 5 Steps HMPV Guide

Here are Drlogy Complete 5 Steps HMPV Guide.

1. HMPV Virus

2. HMPV Symptoms

3. HMPV Treatment

4. HMPV Test & Prevention

5. HMPV in Babies & Elders

Conclusion

HMPV is a common respiratory virus with symptoms ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory issues. Understanding the different symptoms, when to consult a healthcare provider, and how to treat and recover from the virus can help manage the infection effectively.

Check 5 Steps Drlogy HMPV Guide For understanding, preventing, diagnosing, managing, and recovering from Human Metapneumovirus infections