What is the human metapneumovirus, the infection that has peaked in the United States – Corriere.it

the Human locomotor virus (HMP extension), which was discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, is an RNA virus belonging to the family ParamyxovirusesViruses known to cause a variety of common infections. Investigations at the time revealed that the new pathogen, which caused unexplained acute respiratory infections in children, was closely related to the avian metapneumovirus. Therefore, the new virus was named human metavirus. Scientists think it may be It passed from birds to humans Which circulated for at least half a century before it was discovered.

Other known paramyxoviruses are Parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles and mumps. In most people, this virus causes a simple cold. HMPV is the second most common cause of respiratory tract infection in children after RSV.

Why is the virus on the rise?

As with other respiratory diseases, cases of human metagenomeviruses are on the rise, i reported. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which recorded unusual peaks in the United States. In mid-March in the US, nearly 11% of samples tested were positive for HMPV, a number 36% higher than the seasonal peak average for the pre-COVID-pandemic period. Experts speculate that the emergence of a number of viruses, including RSV, may be the result Close and excessive use of masks This prevented the immune system from contacting the usual viruses and thus better managing future exposures. After years of social distancing Children have lower immunity Capable of fending off multiple viruses simultaneously. Children are usually infected with metabinomaviruses by the age of five.

What are the symptoms of human papilloma virus?

The virus, which usually appears in winter and spring, most commonly infects the upper respiratory tract, causing nasal congestion, coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, as well as fever. The infection usually lasts from three to seven days.

When does it become dangerous?

Human MEV is usually mild, but it can have more serious consequences for young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. In some cases, it can progress to the lower respiratory tract, leading to a more serious disease such as bronchiolitis;, which causes swelling, irritation, and mucus buildup in the lungs or pneumonia. Depending on the severity of the virus, the virus usually lasts for the same amount of time as other viruses, anywhere from three to seven days.

How is it transmitted?

HCV spreads in a similar way to other viruses: through airborne particles generated by coughing or sneezing, through physical contact with a person who has the virus, or by handling contaminated objects and then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose. The virus can spread even when people are asymptomatic, just like Sars-CoV-2. According to a study published in gamma Asymptomatic human MMTV infection accounts for at least 38% of infections.

How widespread is it?

Study 2020 about The Lancet Global Health It is estimated that among children under the age of five, there were more than 14 million HMPV infections in 2018, more than 600,000 hospitalizations and more than 16,000 deaths. Infection generates weak or incomplete immune protection, and a person returns to infection for life.

Is there a vaccine?

There is no vaccine for HCV, and treatment is limited to supportive care to make breathing easier. In the rarer, more serious cases, patients are admitted to intensive care although most people recover on their own.