Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and other seasonal viruses are on the rise across the northern hemisphere in early 2025, according to the World Health Organization. While news reports and social media videos have caused concern about a potential HMPV outbreak in China,

Another similarity to COVID: A case of HMPV can last about a week, with symptoms peaking around the third day, Dr. Hoy told us. However, you can still be contagious for several days after you're feeling better and your symptoms subside. This is especially the case for patients with compromised or weakened immune systems.

China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.

Following a surge in cases overseas, find out more about HMPV including symptoms, how it spreads, UK cases and should we be worried.

HMPV was discovered by scientists in the Netherlands more than 20 years ago, but has likely been circulating in humans for the last 60 years. It is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold and flu.

So what is the real situation and what is HMPV anyway? HMPV is a respiratory virus in the same family as the more commonly known respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is not a new infection and has probably been circulating in humans for centuries.