The surge of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases in China and global implications

Abstract

Recent reports of a rise in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases in China have raised public health concerns. The hMPV, a paramyxovirus first identified in 2001, is a significant contributor to respiratory infections, accounting for approximately 10–12 % of such cases in children [1]. While hMPV often presents with mild cold- and flu-like symptoms, it can progress to more severe respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. The risk of severe illness is particularly high among young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals [2]. Acute respiratory infections have increased in recent weeks and at the end of the year 2024, as have detections of seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, RSV, and hMPV, especially in northern Chinese provinces, according to data released by China for the period ending December 29, 2024 [3]. The range anticipated for this time of the year during the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere includes the observed rise in the detection of respiratory pathogens. The most frequently detected respiratory pathogen causing acute respiratory infections in China at the specified time is influenza.

Keywords hMPV cases, China, Public health, Respiratory infections