REVIEW ARTICLE
CITATION: Wilkhoo HS, Islam AW, Wilkhoo HS, Hussain S, Singh B, Kadam SR. Clinical Insights and Advancements in Human Metapneumovirus Management and Prognosis. Discoveries 2025, 13(1): e204. DOI: 10.15190/d.2025.3
Clinical Insights and Advancements in Human Metapneumovirus Management and Prognosis
Harsahaj Singh Wilkhoo 1,2, *, Afra Wasama Islam 1,2, Harkirat Singh Wilkhoo 3, Suhaib Hussain 1,2, Bharat Singh 1, Saumya Rajesh Kadam 1
- 1 Faculty of Medicine, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
- 2 ClinNova International, Tbilisi, Georgia
- 3 Arabian Healthcare Group, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
* Corresponding author: Harsahaj Singh Wilkhoo, Faculty of Medicine, Tbilisi State Medical University, 33 Vazha Pshvela avenue, Tbilisi, Georgia; Tel. +995-5990465192; Email: sahajwilkhoo@gmail.com, ORCID: 0009-0000-2943-6404.
Abstract
Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory pathogen that infects children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Despite its global prevalence, underdiagnosis persists because of clinical overlap with other respiratory viruses. The current approach is mostly supportive, with oxygen therapy and hydration being crucial interventions. Ribavirin contains antiviral properties but has little clinical application. Vaccine development is moving forward, with prospects including live-attenuated, subunit-based, and virus-like particle vaccines. Molecular diagnostics, such as RT-PCR and metagenomic sequencing, have increased detection rates, which aids epidemiological monitoring. Monoclonal antibodies targeting the fusion (F) protein are being studied for passive immunity, while immunomodulatory treatments such as corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins may help treat severe cases. Emerging treatments include fusion inhibitors and pan-pneumovirus vaccinations that protect against HMPV and RSV. Future research should concentrate on optimizing antiviral methods, increasing vaccination trials, and improving surveillance to detect outbreaks. A multidisciplinary approach that combines virology, immunology, and epidemiology is required to reduce HMPV's effect and improve patient outcomes. This review serves as a comprehensive literature about HMPV which provides all the crucial clinical perspectives and the latest advancements in management, antivirals, patient prognosis as well and diagnostic modalities.
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