Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
About human metapneumovirus
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus (germ) that causes respiratory illness. Prior studies have shown that HMPV is an important cause respiratory hospitalization among children worldwide; however, data on HMPV in Indigenous communities are lacking.
There is no specific treatment for HMPV other than supportive care. Currently there are no prevention products available for HMPV. For additional information about HMPV, visit the CDC website at: https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html
HMPV study results:
-
- From November 2019 through May 2024, 13% of AI/AN children hospitalized with respiratory illness and 7% of outpatient children with respiratory illness tested positive for HMPV.
-
- HMPV generally contributes to respiratory illness in the winter and spring, peaking after RSV. Similar to other viruses, the COVID pandemic impacted circulation of HMPV in 2020 and 2021.
-
- The most common symptoms among AI/AN children hospitalized with HMPV were cough, fever, runny nose, low oxygen levels, fast breathing and labored breathing.
-
- HMPV-associated hospitalization rates were generally highest among children younger than 2 years of age.
We thank all study participants, IHS and tribal health facility medical staff, community members, the tribal ethical review boards, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for making this study possible.
IRB #: NNHRRB NNR-19.350; PHX Area IRB 19.08; JHSPH IRB No. 0000960