HMPV outbreak in China: Is it a new virus? How is it similar to Covid-19?

An outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has raised alarm globally. Several countries, including India, are monitoring the virus and its spread closely. But should one worry about it? How is this virus similar to the COVID-19 virus? What are its symptoms, and what have experts said so far? Is there a vaccine for HMPV? Here's all you need to know.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes lower and upper respiratory infections (like a cold). It is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in the winter and early spring, similar to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and the flu.
Is HMPV a new virus?
HMPV is not a newly discovered virus. It was first discovered in 2001, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. However, some serologic evidence suggests that the virus has been widespread since at least 1958, an expert said. HMPV falls in the Pneumoviridae family along with RSV.
Is HMPV similar to COVID-19 virus?
Yes. Coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is an infectious disease which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The HMPV virus and the SARS-CoV-2 virus are similar in some ways:

1. Both viruses cause respiratory disease in people of all ages. Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are likely to be most at risk.
2. Symptoms are also similar. Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. These are also the symptoms shown by people infected with the COVID-19 virus.
3. Both viruses are most likely spread from an infected person to others through secretions from coughing and sneezing and close personal contact. They also spread by touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
4. As per Science Direct, COVID-19 appears to be temperature-sensitive and, therefore, seasonal. Similarly, HMPV circulates in distinct annual seasons, the US CDC said. Although HMPV can be detected throughout the year, infections typically peak in the United States from late winter to early spring.