A seasonal spike of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is causing concern in Beijing. The virus, especially prevalent in children, typically leads to mild upper respiratory tract infection after acquisition through contact with an infected human or surface. Immunocompromised individuals are vulnerable to more severe HMPV infections, and may develop wheezing and breathlessness, indicating that the lungs are affected. Many of these people will be hospitalised and for a smaller proportion, the condition may be life-threatening.
As is the case for many other respiratory infections, HMPV is most prevalent during late winter and spring, due to easier person-to-person transmission associated with increased socialising indoors in colder weather. Currently, northern China is experiencing low…