Understanding Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention In the last few weeks, the spotlight has been on a relatively lesser-known virus: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). With three cases recently detected in India, the virus has gained attention, raising questions about its impact on public health. Here's everything you need to know about HMPV, its symptoms, risks, and how to stay protected. What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)? HMPV is a respiratory virus from the Paramyxoviridae family, with other viruses of that family being measles and mumps. HMPV was identified in 2001, which is not recent, but still has been quite a low-key respiratory illness as compared to other diseases like influenza or COVID-19. The virus targets the respiratory tract and infects people regardless of age, but it puts at higher risk certain groups of people, for example: Young children (under 5 years old) Elderly individuals (above 65 years) Immunocompromised people Individuals with pre-...