RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Human Metapneumovirus: A Newly Described Respiratory Tract Pathogen JF The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice JO J Am Board Fam Med FD American Board of Family Medicine SP 466 OP 469 DO 10.3122/jabfm.17.6.466 VO 17 IS 6 A1 William A. Alto YR 2004 UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/17/6/466.abstract AB Human metapneumovirus is an emerging human respiratory pathogen first discovered in 2001. It clinically resembles respiratory syncytial virus, can cause both upper and lower tract disease, and has been associated with serious illness in the young, among the immunosuppressed, and in the chronically ill. Cough and congestion are frequently reported, and respiratory failure may occur. Initial infection occurs during early childhood, and repeated infections throughout life impart only transient immunity. Diagnosis is by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or rising serologic titers. No commercial laboratory tests or treatments are available. Primary care physicians should maintain vigilance for outbreaks of newly discovered and emerging respiratory illnesses.