A World Health Organisation (WHO) expert has provided crucial insight following a recent surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China.

       The spike in cases has made international news, with comparisons being drawn to the 2019 coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan. However, experts do not expect HMPV to cause the same disruption as the coronavirus pandemic for one very crucial reason.

       In a video shared by the United Nations Geneva X (Twitter) account, Margaret Harris of the WHO stated: "There has indeed been a rise in the number of common respiratory infections in the country, and this is entirely expected during the winter."

       Regarding HMPV, she said: "It's not a new virus. It's got an unusual name, so there has been a lot of interest, but it is not a new virus.

       "It was first identified in 2001, it has been in the human population for a long time. It is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring."

       The disease has been known to scientists for nearly 25 years and is already prevalent in humans. Most individuals have contracted the disease by the age of five.

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       She further explained that hMPV typically causes symptoms "similar to the common cold."

       To prevent the disease, she suggested the same "simple measures" experts recommended during the coronavirus pandemic, including regular hand-washing and staying home if you are unwell.

       Ms Harris has clarified that influenza, not hMPV, is the most prevalent seasonal illness identified through testing in China. "China's reported levels of respiratory infections are within the normal range," she added.

       "It's what we expect to see for the winter season."

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       This comes as data reveals that disease rates have doubled in the UK within a fortnight. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the percentage of hospital patients with respiratory issues testing positive for the illness rose from 2.42% in the week leading up to December 9 to 4.53% in the seven days up to December 23.

       The current figure is likely higher. HMPV infection can be lethal for those with underlying health conditions, some children and the elderly.

       "Children, immunocompromised populations and the elderly are susceptible and they are more likely to be co-infected with other respiratory viruses," stated China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms of HMPV include common cold or flu-like symptoms such as cough, runny nose or nasal congestion, fever and/or chills; asthma flare-ups; sore throat; wheezing; and dyspnoea (shortness of breath).

       Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said:

       “hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we typically see activity reaching a peak at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold. Our surveillance systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that levels are in line with what we would expect to see. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives.

       “As with all respiratory viruses, you can help reduce infections being passed on through regular handwashing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and throwing them away. If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu - if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask.”