Human Metapneumovirus seroprevalence and PCR trends - Findings from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India.

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a paramyxovirus that was detected in India first in 2004. It causes a mild common cold in most cases but serious illness has been reported in some young children, adults >65 years and the immunocompromised. AIMTo study the age related prevalence of IgG antibodies in the population and also to determine the percent positivity and seasonal variation of hMPV infection. MATERIAL AND METHODSThis cross-sectional study assessed seroprevalence by testing 820 serum samples collected between January 25th - 31st 2025 for hMPV IgG antibodies by ELISA and stratified according to age and sex. hMPV PCR trends: Retrospective data from the 1276 tests for Respiratory Viruses done at our centre during 2023 and 2024 were analysed and comprised of age groups 0-18, 19-30 ,31-45, 45-60 and > 60 years. The relationship between gender (M/F) and outcome (positive/negative) across various age groups was analysed using the chi-square test for independence in Graph Pad Prism 8.0. RESULTS: Seroprevalence studyOverall hMPV IgG Antibody Positivity was 53.4%. Antibody positivity was higher in above 60 years when compared to other groups and was statistically significant (P=0.0001) and female predominance is seen. In hMPV PCR trendsA higher percentage of positivity were observed in > 60years individuals who had hospitalisation when compared to the other groups which was statistically significant(P=0.0001). Overall Percent positivity was 7.8% in 2023 and 3.8% in 2024. Seasonal peaks occurred in Feb-Mar and Oct. 92.6% of patients were discharged and doing well on follow-up and only 7.4% deaths were seen. CONCLUSIONOur findings highlight around 53.4% of the total study population had hMPV IgG antibodies. PCR positivity and antibody positivity was higher in individuals over 60 who had other comorbidities. Hospitalization and mortality rates are significantly high in this high risk groups. Vaccine development for high-risk individuals is recommended.