Health officials in the Republic are currently vigilant following reports of a significant rise in cases of the former ‘mystery’ virus, recently identified as HMPV (Human metapneumovirus), in the UK.

Earlier this month, China faced a public health crisis as HMPV spread swiftly through its northern provinces, prompting the implementation of emergency measures.

Images circulating online depicted overcrowded hospital waiting rooms and wards, with numerous patients wearing masks.

Despite these alarming visuals, Chinese authorities have attempted to minimize concerns by stating that the respiratory infections associated with HMPV this year are “less severe” and “smaller in scale” compared to those from the previous year.

As case numbers have surged in China, reports indicate that HMPV has also reached the UK.

The latest update from the UK’s Health and Security Agency indicates that the positivity rate for HMPV has risen to 4.9%, with individuals aged 80 and older witnessing the highest positivity rate at 7.3%.

In Ireland, HMPV was previously monitored as part of the surveillance system.

However, monitoring was halted in October 2024 due to concerns regarding the accuracy of testing.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre in Ireland noted, “As of 14/10/2024, HPSC has ceased reporting on detections of HMPV from virological surveillance of sentinel and non-sentinel specimens 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.