Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Outbreak in China

Situation 

• There are news reports from China about the spread of respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV). WHO/Europe reports that the scale and intensity of the disease, according to local authorities, remain below the level of last year. 

• WHO has not received reports from China of any unusual increase in respiratory illness. WHO continues to track respiratory pathogens in the Region, including changes in strains and variants, and supports outbreak detection and response efforts. WHO will continue to monitor and update on any new information. 

• WHO works closely with health authorities in China to support collaborative surveillance, case management, laboratory services, and infection control. According to updates from China’s Center for Disease Control & Prevention (China CDC) surveillance data from 16-22 December 2024, although there has been a rise in acute respiratory infections - including seasonal influenza, human metapneumovirus (hMPV), rhinovirus infection, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and others - particularly in northern provinces of China, the scale and intensity of infectious respiratory presentation was lower than during the same period last year.

What is HMPV? 

• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus. Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing. 

• Severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, the elderly and immunocompromised persons. 

• Persons with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or emphysema, are at higher risk of severe outcomes. 

• Most HMPV cases are mild, with symptoms similar to the common cold. Respiratory pathogens, including seasonal influenza, RSV and HMPV, can pose risks to those most vulnerable, including young children, immunocompromised persons, and older adults.

Symptoms, Transmission & Prevention 

• Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing. 

• The virus spreads primarily through droplets or aerosols from coughing or sneezing, direct contact with an infected individual, or exposure to contaminated surfaces. 

• Simple measures can prevent spread and reduce risks, especially to those most vulnerable: 

✓ staying home when ill

✓ following medical advice regarding care 

✓ wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces 

✓ covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow 

✓ practicing regular handwashing, and getting recommended vaccines as advised by one's physician and local public health authorities.