Abstract
The recently circulating human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a serious respiratory infection that affects immunocompromised persons, the elderly, and children. HMPV infections can cause significant morbidity, including pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and worsen chronic respiratory diseases. Despite the clinical burden, there is still no licensed HMPV vaccine. This short review examines the mechanisms underpinning next generation HMPV vaccines, the gene involved, the significant epitopes, the immunological responses they elicit, and the potential impact on herd immunity.