Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test
Everything we know about HMPV in the UK: Symptoms, case numbers and how to get a test
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Cases are on the rise after surges in China. The number of positive tests for a virus that has flooded hospitals in China is increasing in England, according to official figures. New data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that one in 20 of hospital swabs for respiratory infections in England came back positive for human metaphneumovirus (HMPV) in the week ending January 19. This marks the highest rate of the virus recorded so far this winter season.
![[There have also been concerns about HMPV in China]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/06/15/2192098673.jpg)
The surge in cases HMPV in China prompted some alarm and led to fears of a possible worldwide outbreak. With reports of overcrowding in Chinese hospitals, leaders in the country attempted to control a new wave of the virus with a spike in cases in northern regions, particularly amongst children.
![[There was an uptick of HMPV cases in late 2024]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/06/15/iStock-1744332060.jpg)
A surge in cases was also reported in India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan. HMPV is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms. Most cases are mild, but infection can increase health risks - particularly for the elderly, young children and people with a low immune system - and lead to severe complications such as pneumonia.
The disease was first identifed in 2001, and is closely related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Like RSV, it is understood to be a seasonal virus, spiking in colder weather and common among children under five. It can be spread through sneezing and coughing, or contact with contaminated surfaces. It has been a regular seasonal illness across the world for several decades, meaning more resistance has been built up in the global population than against Covid-19.
