HMPV and Adenovirus Infections Rising Gradually Across the United Kingdom as COVID-19 and Flu Cases Drop
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 14, 2025 22 hours, 17 minutes ago
UK Medical News: In recent weeks, the United Kingdom has witnessed a shift in respiratory virus trends. While cases of COVID-19 and seasonal flu have either stabilized or declined, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and adenovirus infections are gradually rising. The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests a shift in the dominant respiratory viruses circulating within the community, highlighting a new wave of concerns for public health officials.
HMPV and Adenovirus Rising Gradually Across the United Kingdom as COVID-19 and Flu Cases Drop
Current Trends in Respiratory Viruses
According to the latest National Flu and COVID-19 Surveillance Report, flu activity has significantly decreased across most indicators, settling at medium activity levels. COVID-19 infections have remained relatively stable, with positivity rates hovering at baseline levels. Additionally, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity has also seen a decline, now circulating at baseline levels.
However, this
UK Medical News report sheds light on a concerning development: a noticeable increase in cases of HMPV and adenovirus. Laboratory data indicates that HMPV positivity has risen to 4.5%, compared to 4.2% in the previous week. Similarly, adenovirus cases have increased slightly, with positivity rates now at 4.2%, up from 3.6% in the previous report. Although these percentages may seem low compared to flu or COVID-19, they mark a steady upward trend that could lead to higher case numbers in the coming weeks.
Understanding HMPV and Adenovirus
HMPV is a respiratory virus that primarily affects young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It causes symptoms similar to the flu, including cough, fever, and shortness of breath. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, particularly in high-risk groups.
Adenovirus, on the other hand, is a highly contagious virus that can cause a range of illnesses, from the common cold to more severe conditions like pneumonia, gastroenteritis, and even conjunctivitis. It spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact, and contaminated surfaces, making it a persistent threat in densely populated areas such as schools and care homes.
Hospital and Community Surveillance
The rise in HMPV and adenovirus cases has been detected through both laboratory surveillance and healthcare visits. Reports from hospitals indicate an increase in emergency department visits related to respiratory infections, particularly among children and older adults. Primary care consultations have also shown a slight uptick in cases related to these viruses.
Sentinel laboratory data confirms that the highest positivity rates for adenovirus are among children under the age of five, where the positivity rate stands at 11.7%. Meanwhile, HMPV is most prevalent among individuals aged 80 and older, with a positivity rate of 7.6%. This highlights the need for targeted public health measures to protect vulne
rable groups.
Comparison with COVID-19 and Flu Trends
While the rise in HMPV and adenovirus cases is noteworthy, COVID-19 and flu cases continue to decline or remain stable. Hospital admission rates for COVID-19 have remained at 1.19 per 100,000, showing no significant increase. Similarly, flu-related hospitalizations have dropped from 6.60 per 100,000 to 5.05 per 100,000, reinforcing the notion that flu season is winding down.
Although both flu and COVID-19 pose significant risks, the increasing presence of HMPV and adenovirus suggests that other respiratory pathogens could take center stage in the coming weeks. Public health authorities are closely monitoring this transition to assess the potential burden on healthcare systems.
Public Health Implications and Recommendations
The gradual rise of HMPV and adenovirus underscores the importance of continued vigilance against respiratory infections. Public health experts recommend the following measures to mitigate the spread:
-Good Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces can help reduce transmission.
-Early Detection and Medical Consultation: Individuals experiencing prolonged respiratory symptoms should seek medical advice, especially those in high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
-Monitoring High-Risk Settings: Schools, daycare centers, and care homes should implement preventive strategies, including enhanced cleaning protocols and encouraging sick individuals to stay home.
Conclusion
The latest surveillance data from the UKHSA highlights a shifting landscape in respiratory virus activity. While COVID-19 and flu cases continue to decline, HMPV and adenovirus infections are gradually rising, posing new challenges for public health authorities. Given their potential to cause severe illness in vulnerable populations, it is crucial to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures. The public should continue following health guidelines to mitigate the spread of these viruses and protect those most at risk.
The latest UKHSA National flu and COVID-19 surveillance report: 13 February (week 7) can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-flu-and-covid-19-surveillance-reports-2024-to-2025-season/national-flu-and-covid-19-surveillance-report-13-february-week-7
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