Sanofi

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

An Underrecognized Public Health Challenge
A group of older adults standing in a garden, talking, with a wooden fence and greenery in the background.

HMPV is a common respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections, leading to cold-like symptoms such as coughing, fever, headaches and a runny nose. Symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest pain may occur in severe cases.1

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Similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of respiratory infections,1 HMPV is a significant contributor to respiratory illnesses. It accounts for a substantial hospitalization burden among adults aged 60+.2

RSV is a recognized public health issue for older adults, but is only half the story. Another virus closely related to RSV, HMPV, can cause symptoms of similar severity. Currently, with no hMPV vaccines, there is an unmet need for protection against this often overlooked virus.
Jean-Francois Toussaint

Jean-Francois Toussaint

Global Head of Vaccines R&D, Sanofi

Did You Know?

A minimalist graphic of human lungs within a purple circle. Two symmetrical, elongated shapes represent the lungs, outlined and filled with light purple. A vertical line at the top depicts the trachea. The entire design uses shades of purple against a white background

RSV and HMPV can cause mild to severe infections, with similar respiratory symptoms.3,8 Potential complications include pneumonia, acute asthma and exacerbation of some existing respiratory conditions.4

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RSV and HMPV have a seasonal overlap, with the peak activity taking place during the winter season.5,6

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~60% of hospitalized older adults with RSV or HMPV infections developed at least one respiratory or cardiac complication.7

3D molecular visualization of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The spherical virus particle is rendered in deep purple with a lighter outer layer, featuring numerous surface protrusions.
The human metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Demystifying HMPV: An Unknown Respiratory Threat

This factsheet will help you better understand the potential consequences of HMPV infection and the unmet need for preventative measures to help protect 60+ populations. 

Learn more

Unveiling the True Burden of HMPV

Discovered in 2001, HMPV, like RSV, can cause serious infections, especially in high-risk groups.8

HMPV-associated acute respiratory infections contribute to a substantial disease and hospitalization burden in older adults.9

Due to many cases being mild or asymptomatic cases, as well as factors such as lack of routine diagnostic tests, HMPV infections in older adults are likely underreported.2,8

A group of older adults standing in a garden, talking and holding mugs, with a wooden fence and trees in the background.

Importance of Preventative Measures

Unlike many other respiratory viruses, there are currently no immunizations or vaccines available for HMPV, reinforcing the unmet need for effective preventative measures.10

In the absence of these preventative measures, management currently focuses on treating symptoms and preventing complications. This may include over-the-counter fever reducers, hydration, and rest. More severe cases may require hospital care.10

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Helping People Thrive at Every Age

At Sanofi, we have a long history and deep scientific expertise in developing medicines and vaccines.  

By leveraging our expertise in immunology and respiratory diseases, we are accelerating vaccine innovation while building on existing tools to safeguard more lives. Working to create a healthier, more resilient future for all.      

Sanofi is committed to chasing the miracles of science to help improve people’s lives and ensure they remain healthy and thrive at every age.   

References

  1. Kodama F, et al. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2017;31(4):767-790.

  2. Davido B., et al. The silent surge: the under-recognised burden of respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, and parainfluenza viruses in adults. International Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 159, 108006, October 2025.

  3. Kolli D., et al. Host-Viral Interactions: Role of Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) in Human Pneumovirus Infections. 2013 Jun 1;2(2):232–63. doi: 10.3390/pathogens2020232. PMID: 24244872; PMCID: PMC3826451.

  4. Falsey AR, et al. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2021;8(11):ofab491.

  5. Li Y, et al. The Lancet Global Health. 2019; 7(8):e1031-e1045.

  6. Billard MN et al. Post-Pandemic Dynamics of the Global Circulation of Human Metapneumovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. J Infect Dis. 2025 Jul 16;232(Supplement_1):S10-S18. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiaf086. PMID: 40668101; PMCID: PMC12265059.

  7. Loubet P, et al. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2021;27(1):127.e1-127.e6.

  8. Haas LE, et al. Human metapneumovirus in adults. Viruses. 2013 Jan 8;5(1):87-110.

  9. Kulkarni, et al. The global burden of human metapneumovirus-associated acute respiratory infections in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis, The Lancet Healthy Longevity, Volume 6, Issue 2, 2025.

  10. World Health Organization (WHO). Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) Infection. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/human-metapneumovirus-(hmpv)-infection (Accessed 7 August 2025).

MAT-GLB-2504037-v1.0- 09/2025