The HMPV virus, also known as Human Metapneumovirus, was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. It sparked again in China in October 2024. Since then, HMPV has risen steadily, spreading across countries in the northern hemisphere, including the US.
For 50 years, HMPV has been stirring among humans, and it is known for its symptoms similar to the flu. Associate professor, Dr. Leigh Howard states, “Though it is not new, it doesn’t have the name recognition of influenza, Covid or even R.S.V.” This infection causes upper respiratory sickness, which can be especially severe. Some symptoms of the HMPV virus include coughing, runny nose, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and a sore throat. One is also susceptible to other infections that affect the respiratory system. Most people who get HMPV are five or younger or have weakened immune systems. However, the risk of death is increasingly rare as the most severe cases lead to lung diseases.
Annually, the National Institute of Health observes about a 4.3% to 13.2% increase in hospitalized adults with positive HMPV tests. This includes infection rates of illnesses like influenza and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and those hospitalized. Data shows that ⅔ of patients with cases of HMPV had a disease, and 23% had more than one respiratory disease. Data shows that 35% of patients were under five, while 46% were over 65. Most positive HMPV samples in California trended 15% up around mid-March but slowly decreased around October 2024.
One way to avoid getting the HMPV virus is to wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth with your elbow when you sneeze or cough. Avoid being close to people with the virus or a cold. Avoiding contact and taking precautions are the most important ways to prevent this virus. This includes wearing masks, getting vaccinated, and washing your hands frequently in public places. Experts advise managing HMPV, such as a common cold, in case of contact with the virus. Taking medications and resting will get you through the virus. Of course, if symptoms worsen, one should seek medical care immediately. HMPV won’t cause a severe pandemic like COVID-19 because it’s not a newly discovered illness.
The virus has been globally active for decades and is present in many people. For the news conference for Disease Control and Prevention, Mr. Kan remarks, “judging from the current situation, the scale and intensity of the spread of respiratory infectious diseases this year will be lower than last year’s.” The spread of HMPV has been rising due to seasonal changes and will likely decrease by summer. However, health officials still suggest taking safety measures against HMPV.
In conclusion, scientists conclude that HMPV is not a serious threat to starting a second pandemic. While HMPV may not pose severe dangers, the gradual rise in cases causes experts to advise precautions to keep families safe.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/07/health/hmpv-virus-china.html
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23vjg7v7k0o
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22443-human-metapneumovirus-hmpv
https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/human-metapneumovirus-(hmpv)-infection
