Irish health experts are monitoring metapneumovirus cases

Metapneumovirus cases are rising in the UK

The virus was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, with cases now rising in England.

The flu-like respiratory disease often leads to a mild upper respiratory tract infection.

It is similar to the common cold, but symptoms can often feel more severe, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

Experts have stressed that they're not concerned about cases despite the global increase as the disease has been around for decades.

A spokesperson for the HSE told The Irish Sun, "ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) at this time has advised that the situation in China currently is driven primarily by seasonal influenza virus and other seasonal respiratory viral infections, including to a small degree the HMPV virus. 

"There is therefore no specific threat to ECDC countries above and beyond the usual seasonal viral infections," they stressed.

"Working with ECDC, the HPSC (Health Protection Surveillance Centre) and National Health Protection Office will continue to closely monitor the international situation regarding HMPV in China and other countries.

What are the symptoms?

HMPV is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold.

The main symptoms include:

• a cough
• a wheeze
• a runny nose
• a sore throat

Most people will get HMPV before they turn 5 years old.

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