Experts are warning Brits to be vigilant about the hidden symptoms of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a potentially hazardous flu-like illness that has caused significant disruptions in China.
Recent data indicates that this virus, already present in the UK, is rising in prevalence.
Surge in cases in China
Northern Chinese provinces have reported a surge in HMPV cases, primarily affecting children. Videos circulating online show overwhelmed hospital units, with large numbers of patients receiving treatment. These scenes are reminiscent of the early stages of the Covid pandemic, raising public concern.
UK situation and data
HMPV cases were first detected in the UK in 2001. Typically, about four cases per week are confirmed through PCR testing during winter months. However, recent reports indicate a marked increase in infections, with current levels exceeding those observed at the same time last year.
Experts caution that many cases might go undetected since the virus can remain in the body for several days before symptoms become apparent. This asymptomatic phase allows for easier transmission.
Common and severe symptoms
HMPV often mimics the common cold, presenting with symptoms such as:
- Cough
- Runny nose or nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Fever
These symptoms usually resolve within five days. However, in severe cases, particularly among vulnerable groups, complications such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia can occur. Patients experiencing shortness of breath, severe coughing, or wheezing should seek medical attention.
Expert advice
Professor John Tregoning, a vaccine immunology specialist at Imperial College London, noted that HMPV symptoms are similar to those caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children. He recommended taking precautions similar to those for Covid and RSV, including:
- Staying in well-ventilated spaces
- Covering the mouth when coughing
- Frequent hand washing
“If you do get infected, rest, stay hydrated, and try to avoid spreading the virus to others,” said Professor Tregoning. He also emphasized that antibiotics are ineffective against HMPV since it is a viral infection.
Unlike Covid, there is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV. Treatment focuses on symptom management.
International perspective
Professor Jaya Dantas, an international health expert at Curtin University in Australia, highlighted the need for a cautious response. “We must use the knowledge gained during the Covid pandemic to guide our actions. Testing, isolating, wearing masks, and protecting vulnerable populations are crucial,” she advised.
HMPV can cause severe respiratory infections in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. These infections can sometimes progress to pneumonia.
Long-term outlook
Despite the surge in cases, experts urge calm. Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, noted that HMPV has been circulating in humans for over 50 years, even though it was only identified in 2001. Severe complications remain rare.
Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious disease expert at the University of East Anglia, explained that most children experience at least one HMPV infection by the age of five, with reinfections occurring throughout life. “Increases in reported cases may partly be due to better diagnostic capabilities rather than a genuine rise in infections,” he added.
Flu-like illnesses on the rise
In China, health authorities have attributed the surge in HMPV and flu-like illnesses to seasonal factors. According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 7.2% of outpatient visits in northern provinces during the week ending December 29 were due to flu-like symptoms—a 12% increase from the previous week and the highest level since 2021. Southern provinces reported a similar trend, with 5.7% of outpatient visits attributed to flu-like illness, a 21% week-on-week rise.
Flu situation in the UK
Meanwhile, the UK is grappling with a significant flu outbreak. Surveillance data shows that hospital admissions for flu have quadrupled compared to the previous month, with over 4,500 beds occupied by flu patients daily. Of these, 211 required critical care, marking a 69% increase from the prior week.
Experts expect the situation to worsen before improving, given the increased social interactions over the Christmas and New Year holidays. They continue to stress the importance of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of both flu and HMPV. Photo by Nephron at the English Wikipedia.