human metapneumovirus

noun

plural human metapneumoviruses
: a pneumovirus (species Human metapneumovirus of the genus Metapneumovirus) that is related to the respiratory syncytial virus and causes respiratory infections typically characterized by cough, runny nose, fever, and nasal congestion but sometimes progressing to bronchiolitis and pneumonia
The exact prevalence of human metapneumovirus isn't known, but Yale University researchers recently found it in 6.4 percent of retested lab samples from 296 children with respiratory symptoms … Lindsey Tanner

Note: After being initially isolated from children in the Netherlands in 2001, human metapneumovirus was identified in blood specimens dating back to 1958. It is now recognized as a causative agent of respiratory infections worldwide.

abbreviation hMPV

Examples of human metapneumovirus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The World Health Organization (WHO) released a statement on Tuesday following reports of an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025 India confirmed its first cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in children, with a total of seven cases reported as of Tuesday. Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2001, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of human metapneumovirus was in 2001

Dictionary Entries Near human metapneumovirus

Cite this Entry

“Human metapneumovirus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/human%20metapneumovirus. Accessed 27 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

human metapneumovirus

noun
: a pneumovirus (species Human metapneumovirus of the genus Metapneumovirus) that is related to the respiratory syncytial virus and causes respiratory infections typically characterized by cough, rhinorrhea, fever, and nasal congestion but sometimes progressing to bronchiolitis and pneumonia
Human metapneumovirus may be underreported as a pathogen in bronchiolitis and may lead to admittance to intensive care, especially when it infects infants in combination with human respiratory syncytial virus, reported Malcolm G. Semple, M.D., of the University of Liverpool (England), and his associates. Jeff Evan, Family Practice News

Note: After being initially isolated from children in the Netherlands in 2001, human metapneumovirus was identified in blood specimens dating back to 1958. It is now recognized as a causative agent of respiratory infections worldwide.

abbreviation hMPV
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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