While there’s no cause for panic, awareness, preparedness and natural preventive measures are your best defense against HMPV. As winter settles in, the United States is bracing for a potential rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases. And the potential for future “pandemic lockdowns.” As of this writing, the affected regions are China 7,500, Malaysia 327, Kyrgyzstan 50, and Australia 1,168.

Although not new, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Pronounced “human-meta-new-mo-virus,” has sparked interest due to increased instances in places like China, Malaysia, Kyrgyzstan, and Australia. While it’s not the feared ‘Disease X,’ its seasonal surge prompted a closer look at what this virus entails, especially for the vulnerable and most affected populations: children under five and seniors.

What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is a respiratory virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory infections.

The virus is growing in cases among young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to the potential for severe complications.

However, as a person diagnosed with lupus, a weakened immune system can be naturally boosted. I avoided all illnesses from 2011 to the summer of 2023. I caught a cold in the fall of 2023 but quickly recovered without medical intervention. Why? Because despite having numerous existing health conditions, I have a strong immune system. And you can, too!

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Symptoms

“Symptoms of HMPV include a cough, fever, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, wheezing, shortness of breath, and rashes,” reports the Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland Clinic, Respiratory Health).

These symptoms might seem like the common cold or flu. Still, for those in higher-risk groups, the virus can lead to complications such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, or ear infections (Cleveland Clinic).

Now more than ever, using our four steps to boost your immune system is important.

Pay particular attention to the guidance on psychosocial stress. Don’t panic, get prepared!

Remember, you can only control your behavior. Stressing over what others do with their bodies is energy best used to stay well and protect those you love. Prepare yourself, your loved ones, and your home, work, and school life for “pandemic lockdown” disruptions, just in case. Check out our eight powerful ways to prepare for a future pandemic.

HMPV outbreak insights

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a typical rise in HMPV cases during the late winter and spring (CDC, Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)). This seasonal pattern has been consistent over the years, but any increase in cases naturally raises public health concerns.

HMPV impact on public health

HMPV is especially concerning because of its impact on children under the age of five.

HMPV Prevention and treatment

According to the CDC, “Your health care provider can test, however, there is no treatment.” There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV. Management primarily involves relieving symptoms with rest, hydration, and medications for fever or pain.

This resource provides a wide range of immune support, natural supplements, and viral infection recovery that I use and trust. Remember, I never once caught C19 because my immune system is strong.

In severe cases, hospitalization might be necessary to provide supportive care like oxygen therapy. Preventive strategies include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and covering your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.

What to do about HMPV

Vigilance is key for parents, caregivers, and individuals in high-risk groups. If symptoms of HMPV appear, especially in children or older adults, consider seeking medical advice. Health professionals advise that while most cases are mild, early identification and treatment can prevent complications.

I follow these essential practices when treating respiratory infections and preventing pneumonia at home.

1. A daily dose of quercetin.
2. Spend less time lying down. Rest and sleep with your head elevated to help reduce mucus from settling into your chest.
3. Use mullein or mullen to reduce mucus.

Quercetin's medicinal uses

Quercetin is a plant pigment (flavonoid) found in many fruits, vegetables, leaves, and grains. It is known for its antioxidant properties, which means it helps to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

What is Quercetin Used For?

1. Antioxidant Protection:
   • Quercetin can reduce oxidative stress, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative damage, like heart disease and cancer.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
   • It has been studied for its ability to decrease inflammation, which could benefit conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory diseases.
3. Cardiovascular Health:
   • Research suggests quercetin might help in reducing blood pressure, improving endothelial function, and decreasing the risk of atherosclerosis, a disease of the arteries. Endothelial refers to the endothelium, which is a thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels.
4. Allergy Relief:
   • Quercetin is thought to stabilize mast cells, which could decrease histamine release, potentially reducing allergy symptoms like hay fever.
5. Immune System Support:
   • It may enhance immune function.
6. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties:
   • Some studies suggest quercetin could inhibit cancer cell growth, though this is largely based on preliminary research and needs further human studies for confirmation.
7. Neuroprotection:
   • There's interest in its role in protecting neurons, possibly beneficial in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, but more research is needed.
8. Blood Sugar Regulation:
   • Some evidence indicates quercetin might aid in managing blood sugar levels, potentially beneficial for diabetes management.

Usage:

• Dietary Intake: Commonly taken in through foods like apples, onions, berries, red wine, and green tea.
• Supplements: Available in capsules or tablets, often used for conditions or health benefits mentioned above. However, the effectiveness of supplements can vary, and they should be taken under medical advice due to possible interactions with medications.

Considerations:

• Interactions: Quercetin can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics and blood thinners, so it's important to talk with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
• Dosage: There isn't a standard dosage as it varies based on the form (food vs. supplement) and the condition being treated.

Indigenous Americans have utilized mullein (Verbascum thapsus) in several traditional ways, both for medicinal and practical purposes:

Mullein’s medicinal uses

• Respiratory Health: Mullein has been used to treat various respiratory ailments. Indigenous Americans smoked mullein leaves or made teas to help with coughs, bronchitis, and lung infections. They valued the plant’s expectorant properties, which help clear mucus from the lungs. I grow mullen in containers to avoid it taking over my vegetable garden.

• Skin Conditions: Folks crush mullein leaves and sometimes boil them to make poultices for treating rashes, sores, and skin infections. The Zuni people, for instance, used poultices made from the powdered root of mullein for conditions like athlete’s foot.

• Ear Ailments: There are records of mullein use for ear complaints, where the leaves or flowers were sometimes infused in oil to create a treatment for ear infections or to alleviate ear pain.

I use three drops of mullen tincture per day until symptoms pass. Mullen can be dropped under the tongue to enter the bloodstream faster and bypass the stomach, where it might lose strength. Three drops of mullen in chamomile tea with lemon and honey is also very soothing when you’re sick.

Looking Forward

As winter progresses, keeping an eye on HMPV trends and boosting your immune system will be crucial.

Conclusion: Preparing for HMPV

In conclusion, with winter in full swing, understanding HMPV symptoms, its transmission, and the importance of preventive measures can go a long way in preventing its spread and managing its effects on your health.

For more detailed information, consult healthcare providers for specific advice tailored to your health needs. Remember, staying informed and adopting preventive measures are not just strategies but your responsibility in the fight against HMPV, my fellow wellness warriors.

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