The attention being paid to a Chinese outbreak of a virus often confused with flu is a sign that respiratory infection tracking is improving.

Reports of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory illness that causes flu- and cold-like symptoms, are growing across the Northern Hemisphere, including in China, though neither the World Health Organization (WHO) nor the CDC have expressed alarm at this time.

WHO sheds light on Human metapneumovirus, a seasonal virus circulating in winter and spring. Learn more about this common virus and its impact. Scroll down to know more.

The illness is "typically mild", said The Independent, but it can lead to "severe complications such as pneumonia, particularly in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems". There is currently no vaccine and treatment is focused on alleviating symptoms.

Human metapneumovirus virus in China has sparked fear of another pandemic almost five years after COVID-19.According to CNN, respiratory infections, HMPV, after an outbreak in China, have reached other countries,

The increase in cases of this pathogen in China resurrects old fears. Experts include it in the package of known winter viruses. China has done it again. The announcement of an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has raised alarms,

Have you seen reports about a “new” virus spreading in China? HMPV was first identified in 2001. Here are the symptoms it causes.

Most cases of HMPV are mild, but infection can increase health risks—particularly for the elderly, young children and people with low immunity. In extreme cases, it can lead to severe complications.