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

The Chinese cases are reported to be infections with human metapneumovirus, known to doctors as HMPV. —Stephanie Nolen, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is closely monitoring reports of a spike in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. —Christina Shaw, Fox News, 7 Jan. 2025

In northern China, a common illness called human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is on the rise and sparking global headlines. —Katherine Hignett, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025

Chinese health officials are reportedly monitoring an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 6 Jan. 2025

As rates of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have risen in China, other countries have begun reporting cases of the virus. —Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025

Other respiratory viruses such as rhinoviruses and human metapneumovirus have started to kick up, said Dr. Meena Iyer, the chief medical officer of Dell Children's Medical Center. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American-Statesman, 7 Mar. 2024

Researchers are now using his insight to create shots for other viruses, including another that causes respiratory illness, human metapneumovirus. —TIME, 2 May 2024

Tests revealed Maisie had human metapneumovirus, which presents similar symptoms to a cold, McConnaughy said. —Mike Stunson, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

2001, in the meaning defined above

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