Sample collection and laboratory testing for hMPV
Nasal Oropharyngeal specimens were collected for all children ≤ 6 months for those that met the clinical testing definitions. Combined nasal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected for children > 6 months who met the testing criteria. RNA was extracted (QIAamp Viral RNA Mini Kit, Qiagen) and then tested by RT-PCR for hMPV using CDC (Center for Disease Control) standardized protocols 22. Laboratory prototals were unchanged throughout the study.