Human metapneumovirus infection among children in Taiwan: a comparison of clinical manifestations with other virus-associated respiratory tract infections

ABSTRACTThis study compared the clinical, laboratory and radiological features of infections caused by human metapneumovirus (hMPV) with other respiratory viruses. Nasopharyngeal aspirates and throat swabs were obtained from children during a 9-week period. hMPV was the virus isolated most frequently, followed by adenovirus, influenza virus A, respiratory syncytial virus and influenza virus B. hMPV-infected children were younger, and were more likely to be female, to present with feeding difficulties, a rash, tachycardia and a longer duration of fever, and to cough less frequently. Increasing interstitial infiltrates and hyperinflation were the most common radiological findings. None of the children required mechanical ventilation.