What is hMPV?

hMPV is a newly discovered respiratory virus that affects almost all children by the age of 5. Studies have shown hMPV as the cause of lower respiratory tract infections in healthy adults, although the most severe cases are found in paediatric patients, the elderly and the immuno-compromised.

hMPV is a member of the pneumovirinae subfamily of paramyxoviruses. It is an enveloped pleomorphic virus with a single negative-strand RNA genome. Phylogenetic analysis has identified 4 serotype groups with groups A & B predominating. Studies have shown that the incidence of hMPV infection can reach 25% in certain countries. This indicates that hMPV is ubiqutious virus with a worldwide distribution. Retrospective testing of respiratory samples have shown that despite that fact that hMPV was first reported in 2001, it has actually been circulating for over 50 years. hMPV may be the second most common cause of lower respiratory infection in young children (after Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV))

The clinical symptoms of hMPV resemble those of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms range from mild influenza-like illnesses to severe lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchiolitis, croup, and pneumonitis. Exacerbation of existing asthma and wheezing has also been observed.

Why detect hMPV?

There are many benefits of hMPV detection to Patients and Physicians, these include:

• Reduced hospitalisation
  
• Reduced Diagnostic testing
  
• Reduced inappropriate use of antibiotics
  
• Reduced the risk of transmission
  
• Improved patient care

Biotrin International Ltd has developed the first immunoassay kit for the detection of hMPV in respiratory samples. The assay uses a unique combination of monoclonal antibodies to detect both the fusion and matrix proteins of the hMPV virus and it detects all genotypes of the virus. It is a 96 well EIA with break apart wells and it has shown excellent sensitivity and specificity when compared to PCR. For additional information, please click Biotrin hMPV EIA.

How do I treat hMPV?

hMPV a viral infection. Unfortunately, there are no medications available to cure the viral infection and treatment is individualised based on the severity of the infection. Because hMPV is a virus, antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat bacterial infections, are not effective. The treatment of hMPV is aimed mainly at ameliorating symptoms. These symptoms include: fever, dehydration, congestion and breathing difficulties.

For additional information on hMPV or our new hMPV EIA, please complete our Information request form.

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