Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant pathogen causing acute respiratory infections, particularly in young children. Since its discovery in 2003, Chinese researchers have focused on understanding its epidemiology and developing diagnostic methods. Despite efforts to create vaccines and antiviral treatments, none are currently available, highlighting the need for effective early diagnosis and epidemiological studies. This review summarizes current research on HMPV's epidemiology and detection methods in China. HMPV is an enveloped, non-segmented, negative-stranded virus with eight genes encoding nine proteins. It is classified into four genotypes (A1, A2, B1, B2) and six lineages. HMPV is prevalent globally, with significant health impacts, especially on children under five. Current molecular diagnostic methods include RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, RT-LAMP, RAA, and CRISPR-Cas12a-based techniques, which offer high sensitivity and efficiency. RT-qPCR is widely used for its accuracy and speed, while LAMP and RAA provide cost-effective and rapid detection. CRISPR-Cas12a combined with lateral flow assays allows for visual detection, suitable for point-of-care testing. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) is an emerging method for identifying unknown pathogens, though it requires more time and resources. Virus isolation remains a gold standard for diagnosis but is less practical for routine use due to the slow growth of HMPV in cell cultures. Epidemiological studies in China show that HMPV prevalence varies by region, with higher rates in cities like Chongqing, Henan, Tianjin, and Jiangsu. The virus is most prevalent in spring, and its detection is influenced by age and season. HMPV is most common in young children, with lower prevalence in older individuals and no significant gender difference. HMPV strains in China are predominantly A2b, B1, and B2, with variations by region. Despite these findings, comprehensive epidemiological data remains limited, and further research is needed to understand the virus's impact and develop effective control strategies. The review emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring and the development of more accessible diagnostic tools to manage HMPV effectively.Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant pathogen causing acute respiratory infections, particularly in young children. Since its discovery in 2003, Chinese researchers have focused on understanding its epidemiology and developing diagnostic methods. Despite efforts to create vaccines and antiviral treatments, none are currently available, highlighting the need for effective early diagnosis and epidemiological studies. This review summarizes current research on HMPV's epidemiology and detection methods in China. HMPV is an enveloped, non-segmented, negative-stranded virus with eight genes encoding nine proteins. It is classified into four genotypes (A1, A2, B1, B2) and six lineages. HMPV is prevalent globally, with significant health impacts, especially on children under five. Current molecular diagnostic methods include RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, RT-LAMP, RAA, and CRISPR-Cas12a-based techniques, which offer high sensitivity and efficiency. RT-qPCR is widely used for its accuracy and speed, while LAMP and RAA provide cost-effective and rapid detection. CRISPR-Cas12a combined with lateral flow assays allows for visual detection, suitable for point-of-care testing. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) is an emerging method for identifying unknown pathogens, though it requires more time and resources. Virus isolation remains a gold standard for diagnosis but is less practical for routine use due to the slow growth of HMPV in cell cultures. Epidemiological studies in China show that HMPV prevalence varies by region, with higher rates in cities like Chongqing, Henan, Tianjin, and Jiangsu. The virus is most prevalent in spring, and its detection is influenced by age and season. HMPV is most common in young children, with lower prevalence in older individuals and no significant gender difference. HMPV strains in China are predominantly A2b, B1, and B2, with variations by region. Despite these findings, comprehensive epidemiological data remains limited, and further research is needed to understand the virus's impact and develop effective control strategies. The review emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring and the development of more accessible diagnostic tools to manage HMPV effectively.