Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been shown to cause respiratory illness in patients of all ages, but mostly in young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. HMPV is one of the leading causes of bronchiolitis in infants. Healthy individuals infected with HMPV usually have mild to no symptoms.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was discovered in 2001, and has been shown to cause respiratory illness in patients of all ages, but mostly in young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. HMPV is one of the leading causes of bronchiolitis in infants, but also causes pneumonia, asthma problems, and croup (a type of cough). Healthy people infected with HMPV usually have mild symptoms, but some people may have complications that require hospital admission. Some studies suggest that all children are infected at least once by the age of 5. However, recent studies have shown that older persons or those with weakened immune systems may be at risk for more severe disease. Infections will likely occur throughout the lifetime and are usually mild with little to no symptoms in healthy people.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
Healthy people infected with HMPV usually have mild symptoms, but some people may develop more severe disease conditions.
Symptoms of mild disease:
- Cough
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Middle ear infections
Complications of severe disease:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchiolitis
- Asthma problems
How long do symptoms last?
Symptoms of HMPV usually start 3-6 days after being exposed to the disease.
How do I know if I have hMPV?
See your health care provider. Limited testing is available through lab testing.
Spread of disease is likely to occur by direct contact either through sneezing or coughing or by touching surfaces or objects HMPV virus is on. Infection can occur when the virus contacts the eyes, mouth, or nose.
HMPV most likely spreads from an infected person to others through:
- The air by coughing and sneezing
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them, then touching the mouth, nose, and eyes
In the U.S., HMPV circulates in predictable patterns each year, typically beginning in winter and lasting through spring.
Treatment includes fever reducers, hydration, and oxygen, if necessary.
Frequent and good hand washing, especially if you are ill or caring for others who are ill, is important in preventing HMPV. Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, and discard used tissues promptly. Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly.
Reporting
HMPV is not a reportable disease in Indiana, therefore data is not widely available. However, outbreaks are reportable to the Respiratory Team within the Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention Division at 317-233-7125.
Page last reviewed/updated: August 2026
