hMPV or human metapneumovirus, has become a major point of medical alarm around the world after a rise in cases was reported in several countries, including China. This winter virus, which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and is closely related to respiratory syncytial virus, predominantly affects the respiratory system, causing mild to severe symptoms.

However, doctors say the infection also affects patients who have received kidney transplants in particular, leading to serious morbidity.

According to experts, immunosuppressant drugs increase the effect of the virus, which can potentially lead to many other infections and complications.

How does HMPV affect the kidneys?

HMPV is considered a potential cause of LRI or leptospirosis, a neglected bacterial disease caused by leptospiral infection in kidney transplant recipients and can mimic it. pneumocystis pneumonia,

Early detection could have avoided antibiotic use and further diagnostic studies such as bronchoscopy.

Several studies in hospitalized children have also shown that HMPV infection is associated with acute kidney injury. Research shows that the risk of AKI also increases with age. According to doctors, even though direct kidney damage has not been widely documented, the systemic effects of the virus require careful monitoring.

Signs and Symptoms of HMPV

Experts estimate that about 10-12 percent of diseases in children are caused by HMPV. Although most cases are mild, about 5–16 percent of children will develop a lower respiratory tract infection. Some signs and symptoms include:

• severe cough
• high fever
• runny or stuffy nose
• sore throat
• constant wheezing
• shortness of breath, also called dyspnea
• rashes all over the body

How is HMPV transmitted?

According to doctors, HMPV is spread by direct contact with someone who has the virus or by touching things contaminated with the virus, such as:

• coughing and sneezing
• shake hands, hug or kiss
• touching surfaces or objects such as phones, door handles, keyboards, or toys

What are the risk factors for human metapneumovirus?

Anyone can get hMPV, but you have a higher risk of severe disease if you:

• Are under 5 years of age or over 65 years of age
• Have a weakened immune system from conditions like HIV or cancer.
• have asthma or COPD

What are the complications of human metapneumovirus?

Sometimes HMPV causes complications. These can be serious and you may need to be admitted to hospital. they include:

• bronchitis
• pneumonia
• asthma flare up
• ear infection

How do you keep your kidneys healthy?

Maintaining an active lifestyle and a nutritious diet can help prevent kidney problems. Some of these include:

Manage blood sugar levels

People who have diabetes — or any condition that causes high blood sugar — may be vulnerable to kidney damage. When your body’s cells can’t use the glucose in your blood, your kidneys are forced to work extra hard to filter your blood.

eat a balanced diet

If you are overweight or obese, you are at higher risk for many health conditions that can cause kidney damage. Therefore, make sure to eat a balanced, fresh and seasonal diet that includes all food groups.

drink fluids

While there’s no magic behind the clichéd advice to drink eight glasses of water a day, it’s a good goal to aim for because it encourages you to stay hydrated. Regular, consistent water consumption is healthy for your kidneys.

stay active and fit

Regular exercise is good for more than just your waistline. It helps reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease and lowers blood pressure in addition to boosting your heart health, which are important to prevent kidney damage.

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