From the Guidelines
Metapneumovirus infection treatment is primarily supportive care, focusing on managing symptoms, as there are no specific antiviral medications approved for this respiratory virus. Treatment strategies include rest, adequate hydration, and fever control with acetaminophen (10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 75 mg/kg/day in children or 4,000 mg/day in adults) or ibuprofen (10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours in children, 400-600 mg every 6-8 hours in adults) 1.
Key Considerations
- For breathing difficulties, supplemental oxygen may be necessary to maintain oxygen saturation above 92% 1.
- In severe cases, especially in young children, elderly, or immunocompromised patients, hospitalization might be required for respiratory support 1.
- Bronchodilators like albuterol (2.5 mg via nebulizer every 4-6 hours) may help with wheezing, though their effectiveness varies 1.
- Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections but may be prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection develops 1.
Prevention Strategies
- Regular handwashing
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and typically causes mild to moderate upper respiratory symptoms, but can lead to more serious lower respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations 1.
From the Research
Metapneumo Treatment Overview
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant cause of acute respiratory disease in humans, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe respiratory illness 2, 3.
- Currently, there are no licensed therapeutics or vaccines against HMPV, and available treatments are only supportive 3, 4.
Treatment Approaches
- Antiviral drugs such as ribavirin and immunoglobulins have been used in some cases of severe HMPV infection, but their efficacy is unclear 3.
- Albuterol has been used in children hospitalized with HMPV infection, but its use is controversial and may not be supported by evidence 5.
- Researchers are exploring new approaches for immunization and therapy against HMPV, including vaccine candidates and monoclonal antibodies 2, 4, 6.