Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), SEM

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) strain/isolate TN/93-32 group B2. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of an African Green Monkey Kidney Epithelial cell (Vero cell line) infected with HMPV for 48 hours. The image shows an infected cell (Purple) with long filamentous enveloped particles (pink) emerging either vertically or horizontally from the plasma membrane. These infections can cause "cold-like" symptoms similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections (RSV, Rhinovirus, Influenza) ranging from mild symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath to more severe bronchitis or pneumonia. Magnification: 3000 x when printed 10 centimetres wide. Specimen courtesy of Virology Research Services Ltd (Scott Lawrence)., by STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY