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.

People wearing face masks walking in Senado Square on January 25, 2023 in Macau, China

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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.