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Severe Human Metapneumovirus and Group A Streptococcus Pneumonia in an Immunocompetent Adult
Holly M Biggs1, Chris A Van Beneden2, Katie Kurkjian3,4
1Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Abstract:
An immunocompetent adult with asthma developed severe human metapneumovirus (HMPV) illness complicated by group A Streptococcus coinfection, progressing to acute respiratory distress syndrome and shock. Several coworkers had less severe HMPV infection. HMPV can cause severe respiratory illness in healthy adults and should be considered as a potential cause of community respiratory outbreaks.
Insights
Severe human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can cause serious illness in healthy adults, even leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome. This virus should be considered in community respiratory outbreaks, especially when coinfection occurs.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory pathogen.
- While often causing mild illness, severe cases can occur.
- Coinfections can complicate viral respiratory infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a severe case of HMPV infection in an immunocompetent adult.
- To highlight the potential for HMPV to cause severe disease and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
- To emphasize the role of HMPV in community respiratory outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an immunocompetent adult with asthma.
- Clinical observation of disease progression and coinfection.
- Epidemiological context of coworker infections.
Main Results:
- The patient developed severe HMPV illness with group A Streptococcus coinfection.
- Progression to acute respiratory distress syndrome and shock was observed.
- Coworkers experienced less severe HMPV infections.
Conclusions:
- HMPV can cause severe respiratory illness in healthy adults.
- Group A Streptococcus coinfection can exacerbate HMPV illness.
- HMPV should be considered in the differential diagnosis of severe community-acquired respiratory infections and outbreaks.
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