Podcast Series: hMPV – A Common Yet Unknown Respiratory Threat

In this 3-part podcast series, “hMPV – A Common Yet Unknown Respiratory Threat”, the IFA aims to raise awareness of hMPV as a common respiratory disease. The series will feature scientists, clinicians and thought leaders, and the voices of older people and groups representing those most at risk of serious disease to promote comprehensive information on hMPV.

Most deaths from respiratory viruses occur in older adults, with the risk of infection and adverse consequences increasing drastically with advancing age. (1) Age-related deterioration of the immune system, termed immunosenescence, are directly related to the high morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases, particularly respiratory tract infections. (2) Additionally, as the global population ages, the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease and diabetes mellitus, increases, presenting co-morbidities that increase risk of infectious diseases for older adults.

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a virus that may cause respiratory tract infections, belonging to the same family of viruses as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). (3) Symptoms of hMPV infections are not dissimilar to many other respiratory diseases that include cough, nasal congestion, fever, sore throat, and wheezing. (4) In more serious cases, hMPV may cause more severe respiratory disease, exacerbation of other chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma (5,6), and result in hospitalisation.

Episode 1: Understanding hMPV. In episode one, an introduction and overview of hMPV is provided. The episode will address frequently asked questions, including information regarding common symptoms, risk factors for serious illness, and burden amongst older adults and other key groups.

• Dr. Peter Openshaw, Professor of Experimental Medicine, Imperial College of London

Episode 2: Exploring hMPV: Perspectives and Stories. With these incredible guests, in this episode, we hear from three different perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers! Each guest shares a person-centred story on the importance of combatting hMPV.

• Dr. Melissa K. Andrew is a Professor of Medicine and a Geriatrician at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
• Mr. Radu Costin Ganescu is the founder of the Romanian Association of People with Major Thalassemia and the President of the Coalition of Patients Organization with Chronic Disease.
• Ms. Tonya Winders is the President and CEO of the Global Allergy & Airways Patient Platform, an umbrella organization comprised of more than 150 patient advocacy organizations in respiratory & immunology.

Episode 3: Exploring hMPV: Public Health Impact of hMPV. In this final episode, we dive into the broader public health perspective, exploring the societal consequences of hMPV, as well as current research and development in this area.

• Dr. Brian Labus is an Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the School of Public Health, University of Nevada.