The human metapneumovirus is reportedly surging in China, but should Americans be concerned? Here's what to know about HMPV symptoms and more.

Authorities in China said they are monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, after a reported increase inside the country, according to Reuters. Although cases are increasing at a rapid rate,

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.

A virus that's not well known to the public is spiking in China. CDC officials said HMPV is not a cause for concern here, nor is it a new virus.

As China continues to monitor an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), here's what you need to know about the illness.

HMPV is a respiratory virus identified in 2001, affecting mainly young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. It causes sympto

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.

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.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that the country is not under immediate threat from the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus currently raising concerns globally.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) spreads rapidly in China, causing respiratory illnesses, with rising cases also reported in India.