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

News that northern China is seeing a surge of the respiratory illness called human metapneumovirus (HMPV), bringing an uptick in hospitalizations, is sparking a bit of anxious déjà vu on social media.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases are surging in China and people are worried about another pandemic. Should they be? HMPV is a upper respiratory tract

HMPV is a virus that will lead to a mild upper respiratory tract infection—practically indistinguishable from flu

Have you seen reports about a “new” virus spreading in China? HMPV was first identified in 2001. Here are the symptoms it causes.

Most HMPV infections are mild, resembling bouts of the common cold. But severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, older adults and immunocompromised people. Patients with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema, are at higher risk of severe outcomes.

Reports of overcrowded hospitals and people wearing masks have prompted comparisons with the outbreak of Covid five years ago, but human metapneumovirus is far from a mystery illness.

Reports of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory illness that causes flu- and cold-like symptoms, are growing across the Northern Hemisphere, including in China, though neither the World Health Organization (WHO) nor the CDC have expressed alarm at this time.

Most cases of HMPV are mild, but infection can increase health risks—particularly for the elderly, young children and people with low immunity. In extreme cases, it can lead to severe complications.