In recent days there has been a lot of online buzz about a “new” virus that is surging across China, evoking fears similar to the ones felt during the days directly prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. This virus is called HMPV, or human metapneumovirus. And while cases have  been rising in China, especially northern China, it is certainly not a new virus. Also, despite the labels flying around the internet, experts say that HMPV is definitely not “COVID 2.”

So, what is HMPV? HMPV is a virus that causes respiratory illness, with symptoms much like COVID-19 or the flu. These symptoms can include coughing, fever, and trouble breathing, as well as nasal congestion. Most cases of HMPV are so mild that they can easily be mistaken for the common cold; but some cases are more severe and can cause pneumonia or bronchitis, particularly among people with weakened immune systems. People with already-compromised respiratory systems are at higher risk if they catch the disease–sound familiar? HMPV is spread, similarly to COVID, through coughs, sneezes, and contact with contaminated surfaces or people,. Unlike COVID, there is not yet a vaccine for HMPV. It is not routinely tested for and wasn’t well known before the last couple of weeks.

However, the good news about HMPV is plentiful: First of all, everyone reading this has almost definitely already had it, maybe several times, as most people have caught it by the time they turn five years old. The virus was discovered in 2001 and had probably been circulating unlabeled for a few decades before that, unlike COVID, which was an entirely new pathogen. It’s also very similar to a better known virus, respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV., and research is underway to make a vaccine that will prevent both viruses. Although it has flown under the public radar for a while, HMPV is just another one of those viruses that makes the rounds every year. Yes, cases have risen in China, but that can simply be attributed to the fact that we’re in the middle of cold and flu season.

The moral of the story is twofold: First, don’t worry about a second pandemic. Second, remember to keep yourself and the people around you safe during cold and flu season. During these times, many illnesses, like HMPV, tend to spread at a much greater rate than the rest of the year. This is because airborne diseases travel better in the drier air, our immune systems are slightly compromised by cold temperatures, and people tend to spend a lot of time together in indoor spaces. You can combat this by washing your hands frequently, avoiding crowds, and staying home if you think you might be sick.  

Article by William Reynolds