Discover Magazine: What is Human Metapneumovirus?

By Sean Mowbray

Earlier this year, a wave of human metapneumovirus — also known as HMP, or just MPV — swept across the U.S. It’s a virus that causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections, is common and often goes undiagnosed. But for most, the level of concern should be about the same as a common cold, say experts.

“We do know that there are some people, as with all respiratory viruses, who should take increased precautions,” says Jennifer Schuster, a pediatric infectious diseases physician at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, adding that those who are immunocompromised, infants and the elderly are most at risk of severe illness.

Read the full article via Discover Magazine

Children's Mercy Infectious Diseases Clinic