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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is closely monitoring reports of the outbreak human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China.
HMPV, which was discovered in 2001, is common but underdiagnosed because of its similarity to the common cold, according to the CDC.
Virus cases in the United States are at ‘pre-pandemic’ levels and not a ’cause for concern’ at this time, but there is a big spike north china, especially in children under 14, according to media reports in Beijing.
Chinese government officials said the reported outbreak coincided with seasonal illnesses and appeared to be less severe than in other years.
The CDC says cases of the virus in the U.S. are at “pre-pandemic” levels and “are not currently a cause for concern.” (CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL)
“Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season,” China’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Friday.
Dr. Eileen Schneidera medical epidemiologist with the CDC’s Division of Viral Diseases, said HMPV “is associated with approximately 20,000 hospitalizations in children under 5 years of age.”
The virus can also cause concern in the “elderly and immunocompromised patients”.
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HMPV has symptoms similar to influenza and other respiratory viruses. (iStock)
Schneider said the presentation of HMPV is usually mild and can include respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever and nasal congestion.
“Symptoms are often clinically indistinguishable from infection with other common respiratory viruses such as flu and respiratory syncytial virus, she said.
An art teacher paints a poster to raise awareness against the spread of the HMPV virus in Mumbai, India, on January 6, 2025. (Photo by Indranil Aditya/Noor via Getty Images)
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There is currently no vaccine or cure for the virus, according to the CDC, but the infection usually improves with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications.
