For young children, respiratory illnesses are difficult to avoid, especially colds caused by the ‘rhinovirus,’ which is the most common. Currently, there are also emerging infectious diseases, such as the ‘Human Metapneumovirus’ or hMPV, which also affects the respiratory system. The symptoms can be more severe than a common cold, particularly in children with pre-existing conditions or weakened immune systems. This can lead to pneumonia or respiratory failure. Therefore, if your child exhibits cold-like symptoms, seeing a doctor to identify the actual cause of the illness is essential. This will help ensure proper treatment and monitoring for potential complications.

What is the hMPV virus?
The hMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a virus that causes respiratory infections, commonly found in young children under the age of 5. This is due to their immune systems still being underdeveloped, as well as in the elderly and individuals with pre-existing conditions. The virus spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing, as well as from contact with contaminated secretions in the environment. In Thailand, hMPV outbreaks tend to occur more frequently during the rainy and winter seasons. The symptoms resemble those of the common cold. Appropriate care and treatment can help patients recover more quickly and reduce the risk of complications.

hMPV and Symptoms That Should Prompt a Doctor’s Visit
Generally, after a child is infected with the hMPV virus, symptoms similar to a common cold may appear within 3-5 days and typically resolve within 1-2 weeks. However, in children with low immunity, very young children, or those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, the infection can lead to pneumonia or even respiratory failure. Therefore, parents should be on the lookout for the following symptoms and consider taking the child to see a doctor early:

- Coughing: Frequent coughing, or coughing with mucus.
- Nasal congestion: Blocked nose and difficulty breathing due to mucus obstruction in the upper respiratory tract. In cases of infection in the bronchioles, difficulty breathing or wheezing may occur, with rapid or noisy breathing.
- Runny nose: Can be either clear or cloudy mucus.
- Fever: Typically around 38-39°C, which is moderate to high.
- Fatigue: Muscle aches, feeling weak, and low energy.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
 

Diagnosis of hMPV Infection Symptoms
Doctors will assess and evaluate the symptoms to determine if they are consistent with hMPV infection. Then, they will collect samples of respiratory secretions, such as mucus or saliva, through a swab to test for the virus’s genetic material using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) in the laboratory. If the patient has severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or excessive mucus, an X-ray of the lungs may be performed to check for other abnormalities or pneumonia. This helps the doctor confirm the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.

Treatment for Respiratory Infections Caused by hMPV
Currently, there is no specific vaccine or antiviral medication for hMPV. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. For example, fever-reducing medications such as paracetamol can be used. If the child experiences difficulty breathing or wheezing, bronchodilators may be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms. In cases of severe breathing difficulties, respiratory support may be needed, such as suctioning mucus, providing oxygen, or using a ventilator to assist with easier breathing. For children who are unable to drink fluids or eat on their own, providing nutritional support (such as saline solution) through an intravenous drip is crucial.

Protecting Your Child from hMPV Infection
Preventing or reducing the risk of hMPV infection can be achieved through good hygiene practices and proper cleanliness, such as:

- Wash hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer to prevent infection from touching contaminated surfaces.
- Avoid close contact with or touching individuals who have respiratory symptoms, such as coughing or sneezing.
- Clean toys or objects that children frequently touch to reduce the risk of contamination.
- Wear a mask in crowded places, such as shopping malls or schools.
- Promote your child’s health by providing nutritious food, encouraging exercise, and ensuring adequate rest to strengthen the immune system.
- If a child is ill, it is important to keep them home from school to prevent the spread of infection to others.
 

There are various types of respiratory infections in children. Some can resolve naturally, while others may lead to severe complications and require care from a specialist. If your child shows concerning symptoms, such as severe coughing, high fever, excessive mucus, or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. At the Children’s and Adolescent Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital, we have specialized pediatric doctors with expertise in childhood infections, who are ready to provide close monitoring and treatment. This not only helps the child recover more quickly but also prevents and reduces the risk of complications, which should never be overlooked.