Podcast Series: hMPV – A Common Yet Unknown Respiratory Threat

In this 3-part podcast series, “hMPV – A Common Yet Unknown Respiratory Threat”, the IFA aims to raise awareness of hMPV as a common respiratory disease. The series will feature scientists, clinicians and thought leaders, and the voices of older people and groups representing those most at risk of serious disease to promote comprehensive information on hMPV.

Most deaths from respiratory viruses occur in older adults, with the risk of infection and adverse consequences increasing drastically with advancing age. (1) Age-related deterioration of the immune system, termed immunosenescence, are directly related to the high morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases, particularly respiratory tract infections. (2) Additionally, as the global population ages, the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease and diabetes mellitus, increases, presenting co-morbidities that increase risk of infectious diseases for older adults.

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a virus that may cause respiratory tract infections, belonging to the same family of viruses as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). (3) Symptoms of hMPV infections are not dissimilar to many other respiratory diseases that include cough, nasal congestion, fever, sore throat, and wheezing. (4) In more serious cases, hMPV may cause more severe respiratory disease, exacerbation of other chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma (5,6), and result in hospitalization.