UK on 'high alert' as 'mystery' virus cases surge with Britons advised to wear face masks

Testing data reveals that 7,826 specimens were examined as part of the latest surveillance efforts.

Health officials have now advised the British public to consider wearing face masks to prevent further spread of the virus.

The rising numbers have prompted renewed concerns about the spread of the respiratory illness, which has been adding pressure to already strained healthcare services.

Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "Our surveillance systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that levels are in line with what we would expect to see.

"Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives.

"If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.

"There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu - if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask."

The virus initially caused alarm in China, where emergency measures were implemented earlier this month following spikes across northern provinces.

Social media footage showed hospital wards overwhelmed with young children displaying Covid-like symptoms, including fever, coughs and sore throats.

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Local reports depicted scenes reminiscent of the early Covid pandemic, with widespread mask-wearing among the population.

The "mysterious illness" was subsequently identified as HMPV, which had already reached British shores by the time Chinese cases peaked.

The respiratory virus is known to particularly affect young children, though current UK data shows significant impact across age groups.

NHS services are facing significant strain amid the surge in respiratory illnesses, according to Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of England.

"It is difficult to put into words just how tough it is for our frontline staff at the moment," Pritchard posted on X.

She expressed particular concern about the impact of flu and other viruses on both patients and NHS services.

Despite managing high levels of A&E attendances and ambulance calls, frontline staff continue to provide specialist care with "incredible" compassion and skill, according to Pritchard's observations during a recent A&E visit.

She noted that similar dedication was evident "up and down the country."

The NHS has implemented measures to handle the increased demand, including critical incident protocols and expanded bed capacity compared to last year.

People are being urged to seek medical attention early when experiencing symptoms.

"We would rather see you sooner when viruses are easier to treat, than later when it is more difficult," Pritchard emphasised.

The health service has confirmed plans are in place to manage extra demand during this period of increased viral activity.