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Published on: Jun 03, 2025
3 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms

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Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes illness in people of all ages, particularly young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus can lead to conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and upper respiratory infections. With rising cases globally and in India, awareness about HMPV, its symptoms, and available treatment options is essential.

In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms in easy-to-understand language.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

HMPV is a virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family—the same group of viruses responsible for illnesses like RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and mumps. It was first discovered in 2001 but is now known to have been circulating for decades.

The virus mainly affects the respiratory tract and can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe lower respiratory infections. It spreads most commonly in late winter and spring, similar to flu season.

HMPV in India: Current Overview

In 2025, several hospitals in India have seen a rise in cases of HMPV among children and elderly patients. Though not as widely known as COVID-19 or flu, Human Metapneumovirus is a common cause of pediatric hospital admissions during respiratory infection surges.

Doctors advise taking it seriously because it can mimic flu or pneumonia, making early diagnosis crucial.

Common Symptoms of HMPV

The symptoms of HMPV are similar to other respiratory viruses. They can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe breathing difficulties, especially in vulnerable groups.

Main Symptoms Include:

Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Nasal congestion
Sore throat
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Loss of appetite (especially in children)

In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.

How is HMPV Transmitted?

Human Metapneumovirus spreads from person to person through:

Coughing and sneezing
Close personal contact
Touching contaminated surfaces or hands

The virus can survive on surfaces like toys, doorknobs, and tables for several hours. That’s why regular handwashing and hygiene are essential.

How is HMPV Diagnosed?

Since HMPV symptoms resemble other viral infections, a lab test is the only way to confirm the virus.

Tests may include:

RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) for detecting viral RNA
Nasopharyngeal swabs
Rapid antigen tests (less common)

In India, you can book respiratory virus panels or flu-like illness tests from diagnostic labs like Thyrocare through SecondMedic to check for multiple viruses including HMPV.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment

There is no specific antiviral drug for HMPV. Treatment is mainly supportive, aimed at relieving symptoms.

Supportive Treatments:

Fever reducers like paracetamol
Cough suppressants
Steam inhalation
Hydration (drinking fluids)
Rest

Hospitalization is required if:

Breathing becomes difficult
Oxygen levels drop
Patient is elderly, a young child, or has chronic illnesses (like asthma or heart disease)

Doctors may provide oxygen therapy or nebulizers to ease breathing in severe cases.

How to Prevent HMPV

As with many respiratory infections, prevention is the best protection.

Tips to Avoid Infection:

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when outside.
Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
Avoid touching your face, especially eyes and nose.
Disinfect commonly used surfaces at home and work.
Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
Wear a mask in crowded places during flu season.

There is no vaccine for HMPV yet, but researchers are working on developing one.

Who is Most at Risk?

Infants and toddlers (under 5 years)
Adults over 65
People with weakened immune systems
Individuals with chronic respiratory or heart diseases

These groups may experience more severe symptoms and need urgent care if infected.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if:

Symptoms last more than 5–7 days
Breathing becomes difficult
Fever is very high or persistent
There's chest pain or confusion
A child has a bluish face or lips

Early intervention can prevent complications.

Recommended Tests on SecondMedic (Powered by Thyrocare)

While there is no HMPV-specific test for home collection, you can book tests like:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
Respiratory Pathogen Panel
Influenza A & B Detection
RT-PCR Viral Panels (on request)

Visit SecondMedic’s Lab Test Section to explore packages and book your test online.

Conclusion

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a growing cause of respiratory illness in India, especially in children and the elderly. Though there is no specific cure, early diagnosis and symptom-based treatment can help patients recover fully. Practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people are the best ways to prevent infection.

Stay informed and protect your loved ones. For detailed insights and medical advice, bookmark this guide on "Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Treatment & Symptoms."

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Simple Habits to Avoid High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke worldwide. In India, rising cholesterol levels are becoming more common due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy food habits, and stress. But the good news is—you can prevent high cholesterol naturally with a few simple habits.

In this blog, we’ll explore easy, everyday steps you can take to keep your cholesterol levels in check and protect your heart.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood. While your body needs some cholesterol to build cells and hormones, too much of the wrong type—called LDL (low-density lipoprotein)—can be harmful. It can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

There’s also HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which is the “good” cholesterol that helps remove LDL from your body.

Why High Cholesterol Is Dangerous

Clogs arteries and restricts blood flow
Increases risk of heart attacks and strokes
Can lead to high blood pressure
May affect kidney and liver function

The scariest part? High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. That’s why it’s called a silent killer and must be managed before problems begin.

7 Simple Habits to Avoid High Cholesterol

1. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods Daily

Soluble fiber binds with cholesterol in the gut and removes it from your body.

Best foods for fiber:

Oats and barley
Apples, pears, and oranges
Beans and lentils
Flaxseeds and chia seeds

Tip: Start your morning with a bowl of oatmeal and add a fruit—it’s a heart-healthy breakfast!

2. Stay Active Every Day

Physical activity boosts HDL (good cholesterol) and burns fat that raises LDL.

What to do:

Walk briskly for 30 minutes a day
Try yoga, cycling, or dancing
Use stairs instead of the lift
Take short walks after meals

Even small movements throughout the day matter.

3. Cut Down on Saturated & Trans Fats

These fats raise your LDL cholesterol quickly.

Avoid:

Fried food, chips, and baked snacks
Ghee-heavy sweets
Processed foods with “hydrogenated oils”

Choose instead:

Olive oil or mustard oil
Grilled or baked foods
Fresh fruits and nuts as snacks

4. Manage Your Stress

Stress affects your hormones and may raise your cholesterol over time.

Try this:

Practice deep breathing or meditation
Do relaxing hobbies like reading or gardening
Take tech breaks and sleep 7–8 hours daily
Talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed

A calm mind supports a healthy heart.

5. Stay Hydrated and Cut Sugary Drinks

Water helps regulate body functions and weight, which both impact cholesterol.

Do this:

Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily
Avoid soft drinks and energy drinks
Switch to herbal teas or infused water

Too much sugar can raise triglyceride levels, a type of fat in your blood.

6. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking lowers good cholesterol and damages arteries. Alcohol, in excess, can also spike cholesterol and blood pressure.

Tip:
Even reducing smoking or drinking frequency helps your heart function better.

7. Get Regular Cholesterol Tests

Don’t wait for symptoms. Get your lipid profile checked every year, especially if you have:

A family history of heart disease
Diabetes or high blood pressure
Obesity or unhealthy lifestyle habits

Suggested Test:
Lipid Profile Test by Thyrocare via SecondMedic.com – includes LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides with home sample collection.

Normal Cholesterol Levels:

Type	Ideal Range
Total Cholesterol	Below 200 mg/dL
LDL (Bad)	Below 100 mg/dL
HDL (Good)	Above 40 mg/dL (men), 50 mg/dL (women)
Triglycerides	Below 150 mg/dL

Tips to Book a Test via SecondMedic:

Visit www.secondmedic.com
Search for Lipid Profile Test – Thyrocare
Select home collection
Fast for 9–12 hours before the test
Get results in 24–48 hours

Bonus Tips

Replace white rice with brown rice or millets
Choose low-fat milk and curd
Snack on almonds or walnuts
Cook at home more often than eating out
Maintain a healthy weight

Conclusion

You don’t need fancy diets or harsh treatments to manage cholesterol. Just a few simple daily habits can make a big difference in protecting your heart.

By eating better, moving more, managing stress, and staying hydrated, you can keep your cholesterol in check without medication in many cases.

Make your heart health a priority starting today!

Start following these simple habits to avoid high cholesterol and keep your heart happy for years to come.

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