It’s the time of year where respiratory viruses are quickly spreading, including the Human metapneumovirus, also known as HMPV.

It’s one of the hundreds of viruses that are responsible for respiratory infection in people of all ages, especially among young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Fever, cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, hoarseness, shortness of breath and wheezing are symptoms to look out for in adults.

For those at high risk, symptoms could progress to more serious illnesses, like bronchitis or pneumonia.

According to the CDC and state Health Department, the virus spreads through direct contact with secretions from coughing or sneezing, direct contact infected people or by touching surfaces with virus on them then touching the mouth nose or eyes.

While there’s no specific vaccines or treatments, it is preventable with good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and avoidance of touching your own eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

“Although there is no vaccine for human metapneumovirus, it is preventable,” state Health Department Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “Most cases are mild, but young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious illness.”

People with cold-like symptoms should wash their hands frequently, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid sharing cups and utensils with others, cleaning contaminated surfaces and important stay at home if you are sick.