Six key hMPV symptoms to watch out for as virus cases rise across the UK

Health authorities have pinpointed six key symptoms of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) to be aware of as cases of the relatively unknown illness rise across the UK. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there has been a notable increase in hMPV cases, while China has implemented emergency measures to address its own surge in infections.

The 'mystery virus' swept through China's northern provinces, with reports on social media showing overcrowded hospitals and young patients suffering from symptoms similar to Covid-19. It was later identified as hMPV but had already reached the UK.

The virus primarily affects children and, while it is typically associated with the common cold and mild illness, it can lead to severe complications in vulnerable individuals, SurreyLive reports.

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) outlines that hMPV spreads in the same way as other cold viruses, through respiratory droplets released into the air by an infected individual. "This means a person can catch the virus when they are close to a sick person or sharing a closed space with them," the WHO explains.

The virus is particularly dangerous for young children under five and the elderly. Individuals with health conditions, like immunosuppression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma, are also more vulnerable to severe illness from hMPV.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), cases of hMPV have risen recently. The latest data shows that "Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) positivity increased to 4.9 percent, with the highest positivity in those aged 80 years and over at 7.3 per cent." A total of around 7,826 specimens were tested for the virus.

Symptoms

So what are the symptoms to look for? Most people infected with hMPV will have cold or flu-like symptoms that include:

• Cough

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Body ache

• Headache.

However, it can develop into something more serious. WHO explains: “It can make a few people quite sick, causing infection of the lung (pneumonia) or inflammation of the airways to the lungs (bronchiolitis, bronchitis).

"Symptoms of more severe disease include wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, severe fatigue, dehydration, or a persistent fever that does not improve. If someone is experiencing any of these severe symptoms, they should seek medical advice.”

It is difficult to distinguish hMPV from other respiratory illnesses due to its symptoms. The WHO says: “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.”

Currently, no vaccine is available for hMPV, but you can lower your risk by:

• Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces

• Improving ventilation where possible (such as by opening a window for air flow)

• Cleaning hands regularly and thoroughly, with either soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub

• Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth without cleaning hands first.

If you start seeing symptoms, follow these steps to avoid making others sick:

• Staying at home if you feel ill

• Covering nose and mouth with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing

• Wearing a mask when around other people

• Improving ventilation, especially in shared spaces

• Regularly cleaning hands and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

The WHO says you can treat symptoms at home. It says: “As hMPV is a cold virus, people can treat their symptoms with over-the-counter medicines to treat pain, fever, stuffy nose and cough. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated also helps.

"Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine for hMPV. Most people feel better in a few days.” If symptoms worsen, it's important to contact your GP, and individuals at higher risk should also seek advice from their doctor.

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