However, hMPV is not new.
COVID-19 was an unknown virus while hMPV is well known and occurs every year, Schaffner told Verywell.
In most healthy people, hMPV just resolves on its own.
NurPhoto / Getty Images
Unlike flu and COVID-19, there is not an antiviral medication that is effective for hMPV, Schaffner said.
Treatment generally involves rest, plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter medications likeacetaminophen and ibuprofento ease pain and fever.
Protect others by wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and covering your coughs, Pinkney said.
What This Means For You
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is not a new virus.
It typically causes mild symptoms that resolve on their own.