Amid a sustained rise in infections in the United States since November, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is monitoring a spike in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, starting November 2024, the number of HMPV cases in the US has increased. (CDC courtesy)CDC
Following reports from Beijing-run media confirming a notable increase in positive rates among children aged 14 and under, the CDC has documented a spike in HMPV cases in northern China, according to The New York Post.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a statement in response to reports of respiratory illnesses circulating in China and a social media video depicting a hospital overrun with flu patients, stating that respiratory infections typically peak during the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere.
The U.S. infection rates are still at pre-pandemic levels, the CDC quickly assured the public.
In addition to keeping regular communication with overseas partners and keeping an eye on reports of rising disease, the CDC is aware of documented increases in HMPV in China. The CDC stated in a statement that these stories are not now a reason for alarm in the United States.
According to the CDC, HMPV cases in the US are still low but have been gradually increasing since November 2024. Weekly HMPV test results increased from 0.55% on November 2 to 1.94% as of December 28.
The 2001-discovered HMPV virus is usually more prevalent in the winter and spring and frequently manifests as symptoms similar to a cold.
HMPV frequently causes upper respiratory infections, but it can also occasionally lead to lower respiratory problems, according to the CDC. Although the majority of HMPV infections occur before the age of five, those with compromised immune systems, those over 65, and newborns under six months of age may be at greater risk.
Direct interaction with an infected individual or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces can spread the virus. Coughing, fever, congestion in the nose, sore throat, and trouble breathing are typical symptoms.
According to CDC estimates, HMPV causes at least 20,000 hospitalizations for children under the age of five in the United States each year.
According to Dr. Eileen Schneider, a medical epidemiologist in the CDC’s Division of Viral Diseases, medical providers may not regularly test for or even take human metapneumovirus into account in their differential diagnosis because it is still relatively new and poorly understood. However, the CDC advises physicians to think about testing for metapneumovirus in addition to flu, RSV, and other common respiratory viruses, particularly in patients who have a severe respiratory disease.
“Test results can help determine the best course of treatment and help identify the likely cause of the infection,” she added.
After a few days of rest, drinking plenty of water, and taking over-the-counter painkillers and decongestants, the majority of patients with an HMPV infection recover.
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