Health officials in the Republic are on high alert after the UK reported a spike in cases of the former ‘mystery’ virus that recently affected China. Earlier this month, China had to implement emergency measures after the virus, later identified as HMPV, rapidly spread across its northern provinces.

Concerns were raised after images shared online appeared to show overcrowded hospital waiting rooms and wards, with many patients wearing masks. However Beijing downplayed the severity of the situation, claiming that respiratory infections were “less severe” and “smaller in scale” compared to the previous year. As case numbers surged in China, data revealed that the virus had already arrived in the UK. According to a new report from the UK’s Health and Security Agency, cases of HMPV – also known as Human metapneumovirus – are on the rise. The latest update states: “Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) positivity increased to 4.9%, with the highest positivity in those aged 80 years and over at 7.3%.”

In Ireland, HMPV had been monitored as part of the surveillance system, but it was stopped in October 2024 due to concerns over testing accuracy. Ireland’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre said: “As of 14/10/2024 HPSC has ceased reporting on detections of hMPV from virological surveillance of sentinel and non-sentinel specimens. This is due to an increased risk of false positive results from the routine respiratory panel.” Therefore, it remains unclear how many cases of HMPV are currently in Ireland, but given the virus’ presence across the pond in the UK, it is likely circulating here as well.

HMPV causes cold-like symptoms, including cough, fever and a blocked or runny nose, with some people also experiencing a rash, shortness of breath or a sore throat. It spreads through droplets in the air from coughing or sneezing or by contact with contaminated surfaces.

HMPV is not a new virus to humans, with the first case of a human infection reported in 2001 in the Netherlands. It tends to circulate during the winter in many countries, including Ireland.

Meanwhile, confirmed cases of the flu, which has similar symptoms to HMPV, are currently at “high levels” in Ireland, with the virus expected to continue circulating in the coming weeks.

Last week, the Republic’s HSE issued an update saying: “Flu is circulating in the community, and it will continue to circulate over the coming weeks. Influenza A(H1)pdm09 is the predominant virus circulating, with influenza A(H3) and B viruses also detected at lower levels.”

“Unfortunately, every winter we see rises in certain infections, including seasonal flu and winter vomiting virus (norovirus). While for many, such illnesses are unpleasant but relatively mild, for some people, especially the very young or those who are older, and some with underlying medical conditions, these infections can be very serious. To protect ourselves, those vulnerable adults and children in our lives, and to support our health and care services, it is really important that we do everything we can to reduce the risk of spread of infection.”

Read More Here