A surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China is sparking concerns five years after the COVID-19 pandemic began, drawing attention to another respiratory virus circulating in the population.

A surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has prompted some alarm and led to fears of a possible new pandemic

A virus rapidly spreading in China is also circulating in the United States, causing concern among health experts.

AAP FactCheck – An outbreak of a common virus in northern China has triggered false claims on social media that it's a new pathogen that could trigger a pandemic. Experts say human metapneumovirus (hMPV) was first described more than 20 years ago and is a common illness.

Health experts have issued advice on the symptoms of human metapneumovirus, which can be serious for some people, as cases rise in the UK and China

Known as human metapneumovirus (hMPV), this is one of the viruses that cause the common cold (upper respiratory infection).

Proportion of positive cases for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) hit a record high for the winter season so far, according to latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency

You may have heard recent news reports about a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in China. But Dr. Matthew Binnicker, director of

A surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, in the UK and other nations, prompting some concern about the virus.

Generally, healthcare providers will diagnose HMPV based on your symptoms, taking into account your medical history. A swab might be used to take a sample from your nose or throat, which can then be tested at a lab for the virus and other infections.

The UK is on high alert as human metapneumovirus hMPV cases surge putting pressure on the NHS Health officials urge masks hygiene and early medical care

China implemented emergency measures after the virus began to surge in several northern provinces in the country