A recent increase in cases of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China has been misrepresented on social media as evidence of a new virus spreading in the country with some posts claiming it prompted China to declare a state of emergency.

The human metapneumovirus is reportedly surging in China, but should Americans be concerned? Here's what to know about HMPV symptoms and more.

In China, reports of HMPV infections have indeed been rising in recent weeks in the more northerly regions. But so have reports of all the other respiratory pathogens including seasonal flu, rhinovirus and RSV.

Most HMPV infections are mild, resembling bouts of the common cold. But severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, older adults and immunocompromised people. Patients with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema, are at higher risk of severe outcomes.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases are surging in China and people are worried about another pandemic. Should they be? HMPV is a upper respiratory tract

HMPV is a virus that will lead to a mild upper respiratory tract infection—practically indistinguishable from flu

Officials in India have confirmed the country's first seven cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, which is reportedly surging in neighboring China.

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,

How worried should you be about the HMPV outbreak in China?The Independent/ Lumen5