A summer outbreak of human metapneumovirus infection in a long-term-care facility

J Infect Dis. 2007 Sep 1;196(5):705-8. doi: 10.1086/519846. Epub 2007 Jul 13.

Abstract

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a recently discovered paramyxovirus, is thought to be primarily a winter-spring pathogen affecting young children with a clinical presentation similar to that of respiratory syncytial virus. In June-July 2006, a respiratory outbreak in a long-term-care facility was reported to the local health department and investigated. Surveillance identified 26 residents and 13 staff with acute respiratory illness; 8 residents (31%) developed radiographically confirmed pneumonia, and 2 (5%) were hospitalized. Five of 14 respiratory specimens were positive by polymerase chain reaction assay for hMPV; sequencing identified genotype A. In institutionalized elderly persons, hMPV may be an important cause of respiratory outbreaks year-round.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • California / epidemiology
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Long-Term Care
  • Male
  • Metapneumovirus* / isolation & purification
  • Paramyxoviridae Infections / diagnosis
  • Paramyxoviridae Infections / epidemiology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Seasons*
  • Time Factors