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What is HMPV? Here’s what you need to know as virus cases tick up in China, US

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What is HMPV? Here’s what you need to know as virus cases tick up in China, US

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, health officials say that the outbreak is not out of the ordinary and that the risk of another COVID-19 pandemic remains low.

“The overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year,” a spokesperson for the World Health Organization said, according to reporting from ABC News.

In the United States, HMPV cases have seen an increase since November, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Dec. 28, 1.94% of weekly tests returned positive for HMPV.

CDC officials confirmed to USA TODAY that it is monitoring conditions in China closely.

“CDC is aware of reported increases of HMPV in China and is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease. These reports are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S.,” the CDC said in a statement.

With HMPV back in the news, here’s what you need to know about the virus and how you can protect yourself.

What is HMPV?

According to the CDC, HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease and can be spread from person to person or through surfaces.

Originally discovered in 2001, it forms part of the “pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV),” the agency says.

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

Similarly to other seasonal colds, symptoms include cough, nasal congestion, fever and shortness of breath, the CDC said. But these symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. 

The incubation period of the virus can be three to six days, according to the CDC, and the groups at highest risk include younger children and adults 65 or older. Similarly to the flu, HMPV is seasonal; its circulation starts in winter and lasts through spring.

Is there a treatment for HMPV?

The CDC says there is no treatment of vaccines to tackle HMPV, but it did say medical care can be “supportive.” The Cleveland Clinic says treatments for the virus can include oxygen therapy if the patient has a hard time breathing.

Can you prevent HMPV?

Yes, HMPV can be prevented by taking some of the steps outlined by the CDC.

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

For people who have cold-like symptoms, the CDC also recommended:

  • Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
  • Washing hands frequently and correctly (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds).
  • Avoid sharing their cups and eating utensils with others.
  • Refrain from kissing.
  • Stay at home when sick.

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.

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