The virus can cause flu-like symptoms

The NHS is under pressure amid a rise in cases of a globally spreading ‘mystery’ virus, with hospitals across the nation feeling the strain. Health chiefs are urging the public to steer clear of medical facilities if they show symptoms and to wear masks when visiting wards.

Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are reportedly wreaking havoc across China. On social media, images of Chinese hospitals overrun with masked patients have been circulated. The virus outbreak comes just five years after the emergence of Covid-19.

The virus, which is more prevalent during winter and spring, can cause flu-like symptoms and affect the upper respiratory system. In some cases, it can lead to lower respiratory infections. The virus is not new and was first identified in 2001 and researchers say the virus has been circulating for at least 50 years.

As the numbers peaked for those displaying the likes of fever, coughs and sore throats in China, studies suggested that the “mysterious illness” was already ashore in the UK. According to the latest information from the UK Health and Security Agency, cases of Human metapneumovirus are on the rise once again. The latest update states: “Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) positivity increased to 4.9%, with the highest positivity in those aged 80 years and over at 7.3%.”

The report also clarifies that around 7,826 specimens were tested in total, and comes just weeks after Brits were told to “consider wearing a face mask” to stop cases rising.

Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we typically see activity reaching a peak at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold.

“Our surveillance systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that levels are in line with what we would expect to see. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives.

“As with all respiratory viruses, you can help reduce infections being passed on through regular handwashing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and throwing them away. If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.”

She continued: “There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu – if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask.”

The virus can spread through coughing, sneezing or person-to-person contact. It can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus leads to a mild upper respiratory tract infection for most people. It is usually almost indistinguishable from flu.

Young people including children under two, are most vulnerable to the virus, it also poses a greater risk to those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly and those with advanced cancer.