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

The WHO said Chinese data up to Dec 29 showed detections of HMPV, seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have all increased in recent weeks, particularly in northern parts of China. Influenza is currently the most commonly reported cause of disease, it said.

Five years after the first cases of COVID-19, reports of hMPV, an obscure respiratory virus in China may understandably raise concerns.

Plenty of viruses are having their strongest season for years. But experts have urged calm about HMPV, which is not a new disease — even if you've never heard about it.

As cases of the HMPV virus continue to increase in the U.S. and in China, here's what you need to know about the virus.

China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.

While news reports and social media videos have caused concern about a potential HMPV outbreak in China, experts from the WHO, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other agencies say the rise is not currently a cause for concern and within the normal range for the season.