HMPV Virus Test

Introduction of the HMPV RT-PCR test

Human metapneumovirus, commonly known as HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes mild to severe respiratory infections. HMPV was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. As this virus belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, it shares many similarities with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. HMPV usually cause upper respiratory infections, but it can also cause lower respiratory infections including pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma flare-ups. This virus mainly affects young children below 5 years, people over 65 years of age, and people with weakened immune systems.

What is an HMPV virus test?

The HMPV virus test helps detect the presence of the HMPV in respiratory samples such as nasal and throat swabs. This RT-PCR test is sensitive and accurately detects the presence of the HMPV virus.

Due to its recent outbreaks in China, India and other countries, the importance of the HMPV RT-PCR test is inevitable for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are having symptoms like fever, fatigue, cough, congestion, and difficulty breathing, then undergoing this RT-PCR can help you determine whether these symptoms are caused by the human metapneumovirus.

To accurately diagnose HMPV infection with the help of Thyrocare HMPV test. One of the best advantages of booking an HMPV Virus test from Thyrocare is, that a technician will perform the test within the comfort of your home, so you do not need to worry about going out of your comfort zone.

What is the purpose of an HMPV test?

The main purpose of the HMPV test is to detect human metapneumovirus in your respiratory sample. This test helps accurately differentiate between HMPV through other respiratory viruses, including RSV, influenza, and COVID-19. The key uses of this test include the following:

• Diagnosis: This test helps determine whether the symptoms are caused by HMPV, and reduces the chance of misdiagnosis with other respiratory infections.
• Preventing further complications: Identifying HMPV in younger children, older adults and immunocompromised individuals is crucial because HMPV can further cause severe complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma flare-ups.
• Improvement in patient outcomes: Timely diagnosis of the virus can help control the symptoms, reduce the severity of the condition, and improve the patient’s overall health.

What are the symptoms of HMPV infection?

The symptoms of HMPV infection are similar to those of the common cold or flu. The common symptoms of HMPV infection include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Runny nose
• Rash

What are the causes of HMPV infection?

The HMPV infection is caused by the human metapneumovirus, which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. This virus transmits through:

• Airborne transmission: This virus transmits through respiratory droplets, inhaling these viral particles can increase the risk of transmission.
• Direct contact: The virus can easily be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person.
• Contaminated surfaces: You can also contract the virus by touching virus-contaminated surfaces.
• Seasonal patterns: Similar to other respiratory viruses like RSV and influenza, HMPV is more common in late winter and early spring.

Who should take the HMPV test?

Anyone having flu-like symptoms must get tested with an HMPV virus test. However, some people are at high-risk of getting infected:

• Infants
• Children
• People over the age of 65
• People with respiratory issues
• People with weakened immune systems
• Patients with severe illnesses

How to prepare for the HMPV test?

The HMPV virus test through the RT-PCR qualitative technique is simple and does not require any special preparation. You are not required to fast for this test. However, it is advisable to avoid getting any over-the-counter medications, because they can alter the results.

What is the procedure for the HMPV RT-PCR test?

The HMPV virus test does not require a blood sample. This test is performed on the respiratory sample.

• A technician will insert a swab into your nostrils to collect a sample from your upper respiratory tract.
• The technician may collect the sample from your throat.

The sample collection can be mildly invasive. However, the test takes only a few minutes to complete.

Why is the RT-PCR method preferred for HMPV testing?

The RT-PCR qualitative technique is used for the following reasons:

• This technique is highly sensitive which helps detect even low virus levels
• This helps in early detection of the virus, which allows timely management of the condition.
• This technique also helps distinguish HMPV from other respiratory viruses which prevents the risk of misdiagnosis.

One of the major reasons for preferring the RT-PCR qualitative method is that it accurately helps doctors diagnose HMPV infection.

What do the test results indicate?

• Positive test result: A positive HMPV RT-PCR test result indicates the presence of the HMPV virus in your respiratory sample, and it is likely the cause of your symptoms.
• Negative test result: A negative HMPV RT-PCR test result indicates that there is no HMPV virus present in your respiratory system, and the symptoms are probably due to other viruses.

What if the test result is positive?

A positive HMPV test result indicates that you are likely to have an active HMPV infection. If your test report shows a positive result for HMPV, then do not panic, consult with your doctor. Tell your doctor about your symptoms. As there is no specific treatment for HMPV infection, your doctor will prescribe you certain medications to reduce the severity of the symptoms. However, getting enough rest and staying hydrated can support your recovery.

How long does it take to recover from HMPV infection?

People with mild cases usually recover within 1-15 days. However, severe cases may take a longer time to recover. Also, certain symptoms like cough and congestion may take a few days to recover fully.

How do you prevent yourself from HMPV?

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment or vaccine available for HMPV. This is why it is crucial to prevent getting infected. Here are a few ways in which you can reduce your chances of contracting the virus:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially before eating. Try to wash your hands for at least 30-40 seconds. Also, if washing your hands is not feasible, you can sanitize your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth and nose: Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you or someone near you cough or sneeze.
• Clean or disinfect surfaces: To reduce your chances of contracting the virus, always try to clean or disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as phones, door handles, countertops, and taps.
• Avoid touching your face: Try to avoid touching your face, nose, mouth and eyes without washing or sanitizing your hands.
• Avoid close contact with infected people: Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Also, do not share any personal items like towels, utensils, or hygiene items.
• Improve your immune system: One of the most important ways to protect yourself is to boost your immune system. To improve your immune system, have a nutritious diet, exercise daily, and get adequate sleep.
• Maintain social distancing: Due to the recent outbreak of HMPV, try to maintain social distancing or be cautious in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Wear a mask: Also, it is advisable to wear a mask while going out.

HMPV Virus Test Price in Thyrocare

You can book an HMPV RT-PCR test from Thyrocare. The HMPV virus test costs only rupees . You can book your appointment online through Diagnosticcentre.in.

Why choose Thyrocare to book the HMPV test?

Thyrocare is one of the greatest laboratories in India. Thousands of trained and certified pathologists are working hard to give us 100% authentic test reports favouring your treatment. As thyrocare focuses on the best medical technologies to provide excellent quality, this laboratory became one of the first Indian diagnostic laboratories which obtain international quality accreditation like ISO 9001-2001 rating in the year 2001. And now the rating has increased to ISO 9001-2008 and also achieved CAP certification in 2007.

What is an HMPV test?

An HMPV test detects the presence of HMPV, which is a respiratory infection causing virus. The HMPV virus test Thyrocare uses RT-PCR qualitative method to detect the virus in the respiratory samples.

What are the symptoms of HMPV infection?

The symptoms of HMPV infection are similar to those of the commpon-cold. Common symptoms include fever, cough, congestion and breathing problems.

Is the HMPV test painful?

This test is not painful, but you may feel slight itchiness in the nose or throat during the sample collection.

How long does it take to get the HMPV test report?

You will get the soft copy of your HMPV test report though mail, within 24 hours after sample collection.

Is home sample collection facility available?

Yes, a technician will collect the sample from your home.

What is the price for the HMPV virus test?

The HMPV virus test costs INR only.

How long does the test take?

The sample collection only a few minutes to complete.

Can I take antibiotics for HMPV infection?

No, antibiotics are only used to cure bacterial infection. HMPV is viral infection which cured by antiviral medications.