A respiratory infection known as human metapneumovirus (hMPV), which has cold-like symptoms, is on the rise across the UK, with some health data showing cases of the infection have doubled over the month last.
Currently, up to one in 20 cases of respiratory infection could be due to hMPV, according to the latest UK surveillance data.
Other data showed a spike in hMPV, particularly among children under 14 in China.
This development, along with photos on social media of Chinese hospitals full of people wearing masks, have sparked fears of a new pandemic.
However, monitoring from the UK Health Security Agency indicates that hMPV levels are consistent with those typically seen in the UK in winter.
Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we usually see activity peak at this time of year.
“Infections are usually mild and cause symptoms of a cold.
“Our monitoring systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that the levels are what we would expect.
“Most people contract hMPV before the age of five and get it again throughout their lives.
“As with all respiratory viruses, you can help reduce the transmission of infections by washing your hands regularly, catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and throwing them away.
“If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.
“There are many viruses circulating at the moment, including the flu. If you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and need to go out, we always advise you to consider wearing a face mask.”
hMPV is a respiratory pathogen closely related to RSV and is associated with a range of illnesses from mild infection to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Symptoms may include a runny nose, cough, temperature, sore throat, and wheezing.
Like RSV, hMPV is thought to be a seasonal virus that appears primarily during the winter months.
The highest rates of hMPV infection are typically seen in infants and young children, but can occur at any age.
