What is metapneumovirus?

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus that usually causes mild upper respiratory tract infections. It was discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands.

It causes flu-like or cold-like symptoms, such as cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue. The incubation period is between three and six days. In some cases, the infection can lead to more serious complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

In Bulgaria, 28 cases of metapneumovirus were registered in 2024, the last two from September. The disease is not new to the country. About 75% of proven cases are in children under 5 years of age, and over 97% - in children under 11 years of age. Experts predict that the peak of the disease will be in the period January - April, but only isolated cases are expected.

Metapneumovirus is spread through the air or by contact with contaminated surfaces. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV; therapy is usually aimed at relieving symptoms.

How is metapneumovirus diagnosed?

Metapneumovirus often goes unrecognized due to its nonspecific symptoms. Our reliable diagnostic solutions provide key tools for accurate and timely identification of hMPV, helping to uncover the true cause behind respiratory complaints.

1. Rapid Antigen Tests – Your “First Response” for Metapneumovirus Detection Directly on the Spot

• V6 Combo Test Kit for 6 Respiratory Pathogens:
  • Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Adenovirus (ADV)
  • Influenza A
  • Influenza B
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
• V8 Combo Test Kit for 8 Respiratory Pathogens:
  
  • Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Adenovirus (ADV)
  • Influenza A
  • Influenza B
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
  • Rhinovirus (RhV)
  • Parainfluenza Virus (PIV)
• VM9 Combo Test Kit for 9 Respiratory Pathogens:
  • Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Adenovirus (ADV)
  • Influenza A (Influenza A)
  • Influenza B
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Rhinovirus (RhV)
  • Parainfluenza virus (PIV)
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M.P)
• VBM13 Combo Test Kit for 13 respiratory pathogens:
  • Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Adenovirus (ADV)
  • Influenza A
  • Influenza B
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Rhinovirus (RhV)
  • Parainfluenza virus (PIV)
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M.P)
  • S. pneumoniae (S.P)
  • S. aureus
  • K. pneumoniae (Kpn)
  • L. pneumophila (L.P)

2. PCR diagnostics for human metapneumovirus:

• VIASURE Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) Real Time PCR Detection Kit – individual PCR kit for metapneumovirus for the detection of hMPV in respiratory samples by qPCR
• VIASURE Adenovirus, Metapneumovirus & Bocavirus Real Time PCR Detection Kit – panel for the detection and differentiation of 3 pathogens that share the same symptoms but require different treatment
• VIASURE Respiratory Panel Real Time PCR Detection Kit – multiplex panels for the detection and differentiation of multiple respiratory pathogens

Be sure to browse our catalog “Respiratory Pathogens: Rapid Diagnosis = Fewer Complications”, which presents our complete portfolio of innovative solutions for rapid, accurate and affordable diagnosis of respiratory infections.

Our qualified team is always available to answer your questions or assist you in choosing the best diagnostic solutions for your needs. Contact us today!