Doctors and public health officials globally are raising the alarm over a surge in cases of the 'hidden symptoms' virus HMPV, as data reveals that the rate doubled in the UK within a fortnight.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported that the percentage of respiratory problems in hospital testing positive for this potentially lethal illness stood at 4.53% in the week leading up to December 23 - the most recent statistics available.However, the actual figure is likely higher.
In comparison, the percentage was at 2.42% in the week leading up to December 9 earlier in the month, the Mirror reports.The virus, also known as human metapneumovirus, is already wreaking havoc in China, while a spike in cases has also been noted in Malaysia, India and Kazakhstan.
Meanwhile, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data has also shown a doubling in the number of US cases between the start and end of December, with 300 positive test results in the final week of the month.The CDC stated it was "monitoring" cases in China, but they do not believe there is "currently a cause for concern in the US".