In China, reports of HMPV infections have indeed been rising in recent weeks in the more northerly regions. But so have reports of all the other respiratory pathogens including seasonal flu, rhinovirus and RSV.

While cases are climbing in China, the situation is very different from what it was when Covid-19 emerged five years ago, medical experts say. HMPV has circulated in humans for decades.

Human Metapneumovirus cases surge in China. Here's what doctors want you to know about HMPV symptoms, risks, and why you shouldn't panic about this virus.

Plenty of viruses are having their strongest season for years. But experts have urged calm about HMPV, which is not a new disease — even if you've never heard about it.

Symptoms of HMPV are similar to that of the common cold and can include a cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, wheezing, shortness of breath and a rash. It can also cause upper and lower respiratory infections.

HMPV is a single-stranded RNA virus of the family Pneumoviridae. There is currently no vaccine against the infection, although candidates are being developed by several teams of researchers, including a joint vaccine against both HMPV and the closely related respiratory syncytial virus ( RSV ).

Cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, a contagious virus that can lead to respiratory disease, is reportedly spiking in northern China. Infectious disease experts say risk to the U.S. is low.