Winter Virus Without an Antiviral Cure, Yet Still Manageable

Symptoms

Winter arrives with silent threats that may compromise health, particularly among young children and the elderly—groups at higher risk for various illnesses. One of the diseases that needs to be especially cautious of is hMPV (Human Metapneumovirus infection), which tends to spread during cold weather. This virus can cause acute respiratory infections and, without proper care, may progress to pneumonia or severe lung inflammation. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment, so management focuses primarily on symptom relief.

Dr. Warinthip Mahapasuthanon, an infectious disease doctor at Vejthani Hospital, explained that “hMPV” is a virus that affects the respiratory system and can impact people of all ages, particularly young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. While the virus can circulate year-round, it is more prevalent during the winter and rainy seasons.

hMPV symptoms often resemble common respiratory infections like the flu and RSV, including cough, runny nose, fever, difficulty breathing, and pneumonia.

hMPV can spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus, as well as through coughing or sneezing from an infected person. It can also survive on surfaces like doorknobs or children’s toys. Touching these surfaces then touching the face may lead to infection.

High-risk groups:

• Children under 5 years old
• Older adults
• Those with underlying conditions like lung disease, heart disease, or diabetes
• Immunocompromised individuals

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose hMPV by swabbing respiratory secretions and testing them in a laboratory. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, such as administering fever reducers and decongestants. For severe cases, hospitalization may be required for procedures like nebulization, percussion, suctioning of mucus, and intravenous fluids.

Currently, no vaccine is available for hMPV, making prevention crucial.

• Avoid close contact with infected patients
• Avoid crowded places
• Wear a face mask
• Wash hands frequently

For more information, please contact

Internal Medicine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2200, 2204
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888