Cold or HMPV?
The virus outbreak in China is raising concerns reminiscent of 2019, but this time the focus is on human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory virus.
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Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have hit certain states, including California and New Jersey.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory tract disease, and there is currently no vaccine to prevent HMPV or specific antiviral therapy to treat HMPV.
Rather, medical care can be “supportive,” treating symptoms, the CDC notes. “Most people recover spontaneously,” the agency said, but added that those who become ill should drink plenty of fluids, stay home and rest.
The Cleveland Clinic says treatment for the virus may include oxygen therapy if patients have trouble breathing.
Here’s what else you should know about this virus:
Is HMPV a new virus?
HMPV is not a “new” virus in 2026. HMPV was first discovered in 2001, but since its outbreak in April 2025, cases in the United States have not surged to recent levels.
According to the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS), as of February 21, the latest data available, HMPV accounts for just over 5% of positive tests for respiratory viruses reported each week. This is up from 3.83% the previous week.
In April 2025, the weekly percentage peaked at 7.43%, according to NREVSS data.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, in addition to the increase in the number of HMPV infections, New Jersey is experiencing an increase in the number of people infected with respiratory syncytial virus, the new coronavirus, and influenza, and the number of people seeking emergency medical care is rapidly increasing.
High levels of HMPV have been detected in sewage in communities in Northern California, according to data from the WastewaterScan Dashboard, a public database that monitors infectious diseases in sewage.
Symptoms of HMPV
Symptoms of HMPV include cough, nasal congestion, fever, and shortness of breath, according to the CDC. In some cases, these symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Like influenza, HMPV is seasonal. That is, the epidemic begins in winter and lasts until spring.
According to the CDC, the incubation period for HMPV can be 3 to 6 days, and the groups most at risk include young children and adults 65 and older.
Prevention of HMPV
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for HMPV, but there are steps you can take to prevent infection.
Because this virus can be transmitted from person to person or through surfaces, the CDC recommends the following key prevention strategies for respiratory viruses:
- wash hands properly
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
- Initiatives for cleaner air
Also, if you have cold-like symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to prevent infection.
Contributor: Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA TODAY
