HMPV symptoms to look out for as 'mystery virus' cases soar in the UK

Cases of the HMPV virus are dramatically rising in the UK, just weeks after reports of the ‘mystery’ illness in China sparked concern online about another pandemic.

Health bosses in the UK are on high alert as the latest data shows cases are on the rise, with those over the age of 80 most at risk.

The latest report from the UK’s Health and Security Agency indicates an uptick in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, rising to 4.9 per cent. The highest positivity was seen in those aged 80 years and over, at 7.3 per cent.

China recently experienced a spike in HMPV cases, becoming one of the top four most common viral infections among hospital patients in the country. Reports of overcrowded hospitals in China sparked concerns about another pandemic, just five years after the emergence of COVID-19.

UK health bosses confirmed the seasonal surge had also hit the UK, the percentage of people testing positive for HMPV after visiting their GP with respiratory symptoms increased from 2.24 per cent to 4.53 per cent in December 2024.

Experts warn the former ‘mystery virus’ does not have pandemic potential but HMPV can cause serious illness in the elderly, children, or immunocompromised people.

Being aware of the symptoms of HMPV can protect you and others, particularly vulnerable people who are most at risk.

HMPV symptoms to look out for

HMPV is a common seasonal virus that causes cold or flu-like symptoms. The viral disease is from the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is one of the viruses that causes the ‘common cold’.

Symptoms are similar to those of other common respiratory viruses, which include a cough, fever, body aches, a blocked nose, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The incubation period of HMPV is three to six days.

In serious cases, HMPV symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. Experts warn hospitalisations from the virus are almost exclusively among those in high risk groups.

Despite the surge in cases, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has not flagged the rise in HMPV infections as a global health emergency.

“This is very different to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Professor Jill Carr, a virologist in the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University.

“The virus was completely new in humans and arose from a spill-over from animals and spread to pandemic levels because there was no prior exposure or protective immunity in the community.

“HMPV can certainly make people very sick, and high case numbers are a threat to effective hospital services, but the current situation in China with high HMPV cases is very different to the threats initially posed by SARS-CoV-2 resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic.”

How to protect yourself from HMPV

The surge in HMPV cases comes weeks after Brits were reportedly told to “consider wearing a face mask” to limit the spread, according to The Mirror.

To avoid contracting the virus, experts say to adopt the same hygiene measures practiced during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“HMPV spreads via the air and contaminated surfaces,” explains Prof Martin Michaelis, Professor of Molecular Medicine, University of Kent, who advises “thorough hand hygiene, avoiding contact with others, and wearing a face mask” to stop the spread of the virus.

“Being cautious will protect you and others, in particular vulnerable individuals, who are at an increased risk,” Prof Michaelis adds.

There are currently no vaccines or drugs available for HMPV. If you do contract the virus, the WHO advises drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of rest.

The WHO said: "Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine for HMPV. Most people feel better in a few days. If symptoms get worse, they should contact their health care provider. Those who are at higher risk should also consult their doctor, even if their symptoms are not too bad.

"It is hard to tell different respiratory illnesses apart as they have similar symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and congestion. However, the treatment can differ, especially for people who are or can become very sick. COVID-19 and Influenza have specific antiviral treatment options. Doctors may use diagnostic tests to identify the cause before deciding on the treatment."