Possible spike of HMPV cases in China being monitored by CDC.

The CDC is closely monitoring reports of a spike in HMPV cases in China.

The CDC reports that HMPV, discovered in 2001, is common but underdiagnosed because of its similarities to the common cold.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the US is currently at pre-pandemic levels and is not a cause for concern, but there is a significant increase in northern China, particularly among children aged 14 and under, as reported in Beijing media.

The spike in reported cases coincides with the seasonal illness and appears to be less severe than usual, according to Chinese government officials.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated on Friday that respiratory infections typically increase during the winter season.

HMPV is linked to about 20,000 hospitalizations among kids under 5 years old, according to Dr. Eileen Schneider, a medical epidemiologist in the CDC's Division of Viral Diseases.

Immunocompromised individuals and older adults are also at risk from the virus.

HMPV presentations are typically mild and may manifest with respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion, as stated by Schneider.

She stated that the symptoms are typically difficult to distinguish clinically from infections caused by other common respiratory viruses, including flu and respiratory syncytial virus.

The CDC stated that there is no vaccine or cure for the virus, but the infection usually gets better with resting, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medication.