Do a week-long cough and breathlessness suggest HMPV?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father is 67 years old. He has been having a bad cough and stuffy nose for a week now. He is usually very active, but lately he has been really tired and breathless. At first we thought it was just a common cold or allergies, but then his fever went up to 102 yesterday. I read about HMPV online and the symptoms sound kinda similar. Could it be that? Or maybe something else entirely? He has not been around anyone sick as far as I know. Should we get him tested for something specific or is it too soon to worry? I am not sure if it is an infection or just his age catching up with him. Any advice on what to do or what signs to watch out for?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus responsible for acute respiratory infections, especially in children, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of HMPV:

Symptoms typically appear three to six days after exposure and may include:

Nasal congestion.
Runny nose.
Sore throat.
Headache.
Cough.

In severe cases, HMPV can lead to:

Difficulty breathing.
Wheezing.
Fever.
Bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia.

How does HMPV spread?

The virus spreads through close contact with infected individuals and touching contaminated surfaces.

The probable causes are LRTI (lower respiratory tract infections).

Investigations to be done:

Complete blood count.
Chest X-ray if symptoms persist.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for HMPV

Treatment for HMPV infections:

Most cases resolve within two to five days without specific treatment.

Management includes:

Rest.
Drinking plenty of fluids.
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for fever (to be taken after consulting a specialist doctor) and
Pair supplemental oxygen and fluids in severe cases.

In the case of your father, considering the age and ongoing HMPV outbreak, the first thing to do is get tested for HMPV. Without confirmed diagnosis, it will not be correct to call HMPV.

For the fever, the above mentioned medicine can be taken. As he is having breathlessness, it is always better to get him examined by the doctor there.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach me again, in case of further queries.

Thank you.