HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS: A RISING THREAT IN ACUTE RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS AND ADVANCES IN DIAGNOSTIC AND PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES

Dr. Rahil Pasha S. A., Dr. Parimala S., Dr. Zoha Iftikhar

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a key contributor to acute respiratory infections (ARIs), particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Since its discovery in 2001, this negative sense RNA virus has been recognized for its seasonal transmiss ion, often coinciding with other respiratory pathogens. Severe cases are more likely to occur in patients with underlying health conditions or at a very young age. Treatment options are primarily supportive, although potential antivirals such as ribavirin and fusion inhibitors are being explored. Advances in molecular diagnostics such as RT PCR have enhanced the ability to detect hMPV and distinguish it from coinfections. Promising vaccine candidates are currently under investigation, including subunit vacc ines, virus like particles, and live attenuated strains. However, challenges, such as antigenic diversity and incomplete immunity from natural infections, remain barriers to vaccine development. Continued research on hMPV’s pathogenesis, immune evasion str ategies, and vaccine development is essential to reduce the global health burden, especially in high risk groups.