What is human metapneumovirus, are cases surging in China, and should we be worried?

Surging HMPV cases in northern China have prompted some online alarm but experts say the risk of another Covid-like pandemic is low

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms, but can increase risks or lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised people.

The disease is in the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and has been around since at least 2001 when it was first identified in the Netherlands. Its outbreaks are concentrated during colder seasons.