True regarding metapneumovirus is:
**Core Concept**
Metapneumovirus is a type of respiratory virus that belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. It is a single-stranded RNA virus that primarily affects the respiratory system of humans, causing symptoms similar to those of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Metapneumovirus causes infection mainly in the lower respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The virus is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets, contact with contaminated surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. The virus replicates within the respiratory epithelial cells, leading to inflammation and disruption of the normal respiratory function.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Metapneumovirus is not more commonly associated with severe disease in immunocompromised patients, which is a characteristic of other viruses like RSV and influenza.
**Option B:** Metapneumovirus is not typically associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, unlike some other viruses like norovirus and rotavirus.
**Option C:** Metapneumovirus is not an RNA virus that primarily affects the central nervous system, which is more characteristic of viruses like rabies and poliovirus.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Metapneumovirus is a significant cause of respiratory illness in children, particularly those under the age of 5, and can also affect adults with underlying chronic medical conditions.
**Correct Answer:** C.