How to diagnose HMPV?

Question

Hello doctor,

My three-year-old daughter has been having a cold and cough for about a week now. At first, we thought it was just a regular cold, but now she is having trouble breathing properly. She is also running a temperature, and sometimes I notice her wheezing. We took her to a small clinic nearby, and they said it might be a viral infection like HMPV but did not explain much. They just gave us some syrups for fever and cough. She does not seem to be getting better, and her energy levels are very low. Is this something serious or dangerous? How do we confirm if it is HMPV? Should we be doing any specific tests or X-rays? And what can we do at home to make her feel better? Please let me know if there is anything we need to change in her medicines or diet.

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

It is better to plan basic tests like chest X-ray PA (posteroanterior) view, CBC (complete blood count), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and CRP (C-reactive protein).

I suggest you to do the following:

Keep monitoring vitals like pulse, BP (blood pressure), oxygen saturation, and temperature. If irrational it is best to visit the hospital.
Keep good oral intake.
A high-protein diet will hasten recovery and also include vitamin C-rich food.

Do not panic about HMPV (human metapneumovirus), it is a simple viral like the flu and needs symptomatic treatment.

I hope this helps.

Take care.