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.

News that northern China is seeing a surge of the respiratory illness called human metapneumovirus (HMPV), bringing an uptick in hospitalizations, is sparking a bit of anxious déjà vu on social media.

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,

The manageable risk level of HMPV, when coupled with continued vigilance and research, should provide a sense of control and confidence in addressing the virus.

HMPV causes mild illness in most adults. However, it poses a higher risk to specific vulnerable groups. These people need to be careful. Read on as Dr. Vikas Mittal shares how HMPV affects people and if antibiotics are effective against the virus.

Cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, a contagious virus that can lead to respiratory disease, is reportedly spiking in northern China. Infectious disease experts say risk to the U.S. is low.

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