Metapneumovirus
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Turkey rhinotracheitis virus |
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) was isolated for the first time in 2001 in the Netherlands by using the RAP-PCR technique for identification of unknown viruses growing in cultured cells. hMPV is a negative single-stranded RNA virus of the family Paramyxoviridae and is closely related to the avian metapneumovirus (AMPV) subgroup C. It may be the second most common cause (after the respiratory syncytial virus) of lower respiratory infection in young children.
Compared with respiratory syncytial virus, infection with human metapneumovirus tends to occur in slightly older children and to produce disease that is less severe. Co-infection with both viruses can occur, and is generally associated with worse disease. Human metapneumovirus accounts for approximately 10% of respiratory tract infections that are not related to previously known etiologic agents. The virus seems to be distributed worldwide and to have a seasonal distribution with its incidence comparable to that for the influenza viruses during winter. Serologic studies have shown that by the age of five, virtually all children have been exposed to the virus and reinfections appear to be common. Human metapneumovirus may cause mild respiratory tract infection however small children, elderly and immunocompromised individuals are at risk of severe disease and hospitalization.
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