Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Key facts
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes a mild illness.
- HMPV is spread by droplets in the air and contact with mucus or saliva.
- HMPV can usually be safely treated at home by resting and staying hydrated.
- Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are most likely to get complications from HMPV.
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and water can help stop you from getting HMPV.
What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus. It causes a mild illness that affects your:
HMPV can cause both upper and lower respiratory symptoms. It's like the common cold or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
HMPV is a seasonal disease. Infections usually happen in winter and early spring like RSV and the flu.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
Symptoms include:
- cough
- fever — a temperature of 38°C or higher
- runny nose or blocked nose
- headache
- fatigue (tiredness)
Your symptoms may be more severe if you have a history of:
- asthma
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- emphysema
- other lung disease
You are most likely to become sick with HMPV 3 to 5 days after contact with the virus.
If you have a baby under 3 months old with a fever above 38℃, take them to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
What causes HMPV?
HMPV is caused by a virus. The virus is spread by droplets in the air and contact with mucus or saliva.
You can get infected with HMPV by:
- breathing in droplets
- touching a surface contaminated with droplets and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth
Contaminated surfaces can be:
- hands
- tissues
- toys
- eating utensils
When should I see my doctor?
Most people with HMPV do not need to see a doctor. The illness should go away on its own.
However, you should see a doctor if your symptoms get worse and you develop:
- shortness of breath, making it difficult to walk or do your usual activities
- severe cough
- wheezing
- difficulty breathing — chest tightness that lasts for more than 10 minutes
- confusion and difficulty remembering the day, date or names
- vomiting — unable to keep liquids down
- symptoms of dehydration, such as being dizzy when standing up
If you think you have a respiratory virus, call your doctor. They will tell you the safest way to see them. Ask your doctor about the possibility of a home visit or telehealth appointment.
If your symptoms become severe, go to your nearest emergency department or call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
How is HMPV diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms.
They may order pathology tests to confirm the type of virus causing your illness.
In severe cases, your doctor may do a bronchoscopy. This is where a small, flexible camera is put into your lung. A sample of fluid is removed to test for viruses.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.
How is HMPV treated?
HMPV can usually be safely treated at home.
Try to:
- rest
- keep hydrated by taking frequent sips of water
- take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease your symptoms as needed
Remember to always follow the instructions on the medicine packet.
Children under the age of 16 years should not take aspirin. This is because it may cause a serious condition called Reye's syndrome.
Antibiotics aren't used to treat HMPV. Antibiotics treat infections caused by bacteria.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
What are the complications of HMPV?
Complications can occur such as:
People who are more likely to get complications from HMPV are:
- young children, especially infants
- older adults
- people with weakened immune systems — including those having chemotherapy or who have had an organ transplant
Can HMPV be prevented?
There are some simple steps you can take to help protect yourself from HMPV.
Wash your hands regularly, using soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if you can't use soap and water.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing and sneezing. If there are no tissues nearby, cough or sneeze into your elbow. Do not use your hands. Throw the tissue into a bin and wash your hands straight away.
Don't share cups, glasses and cutlery with people who are sick. Regularly wash utensils and wipe surfaces with a household cleaner that contains soap or detergent.
Wear a face mask. Masks help protect you against viral illnesses. Masks are strongly advised for use in crowded places.
There is no vaccine available to prevent HMPV.
How to prevent the spread of HMPV?
To stop the spread of HMPV, you can do the following:
- Stay at home while you feel unwell. This stops you passing the virus on to other people.
- Keep children away from school and childcare while they have symptoms.
Resources and support
Learn more about colds and flu.
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: January 2025
