Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a relatively recent addition to the multiplicity of viruses causing respiratory illness in infants and children. Although well described in its ability to cause respiratory illness, there is limited data detailing the association of hMPV with neurologic complications. In this report, we describe 2 toddlers with hMPV infection who presented in status epilepticus and went on to develop respiratory failure. Both patients fully recovered over 2 weeks and were discharged from the hospital with no sequelae. The association between hMPV infection and neurologic complications is increasingly being reported in the literature. Clinicians should be aware of these uncommon manifestations of a common respiratory pathogen and consider testing for hMPV when managing pediatric patients who present with unexplained status epilepticus or encephalitis.
Keywords: human metapneumovirus; respiratory failure; status epilepticus.