To estimate the risk of HMPV-associated hospitalizations among adults with chronic medical conditions (CMCs) such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accidents, diabetes mellitus, and end-stage renal disease in New Zealand from 2012 to 2015.
Key Findings:
HMPV hospitalization rates were significantly higher among adults with CMCs compared to those without, particularly in older age groups and among different ethnicities.
Congestive heart failure had the highest risk of HMPV hospitalization (IRR range, 7.0–23.0), especially in Māori/Pacific adults.
Coronary artery disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease also showed elevated risks across various demographics.
Risk varied by age group and ethnicity, with specific CMCs posing higher risks in different populations.
Interpretation:
Adults with chronic medical conditions, particularly congestive heart failure, are at increased risk for HMPV hospitalizations, indicating a need for targeted prevention strategies and public health interventions.
Limitations:
Study may not fully capture the population-level risk due to potential selection biases.
Focus on specific CMCs may limit generalizability to other conditions.
Seasonal variations in hospitalization rates may also affect the findings.
Conclusion:
Adults with specific or multiple CMCs are at increased risk for HMPV hospitalizations, highlighting the importance of tailored prevention strategies and the need for further research.
