The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that the country is not at risk of an outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory infection currently causing hospitalizations in China, particularly among children.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, emphasized the agency’s proactive measures to safeguard public health. These include enhanced surveillance, development of an HMPV Entry Implementation Protocol, and equipping laboratories in states with international airports for efficient testing.
Proactive Measures at Points of Entry
The NCDC has implemented COVID-19-style protocols at airports and borders, including comprehensive situation analysis, the deployment of infection prevention and control materials, and identification of quarantine facilities for suspected cases. Thermal cameras and routine health screenings have been activated at all entry points.
Additionally, health workers are being trained in case management preparedness, and hospitals have been issued advisories on infection prevention practices. The agency has also stockpiled personal protective equipment and laboratory reagents.
Surveillance and Public Awareness
Dr. Idris highlighted the expansion of the National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system to include testing for HMPV. The system, operating across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, monitors Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Current data, he noted, does not indicate unusual increases in respiratory infections.
To enhance public awareness, the NCDC has initiated risk communication campaigns, advising frequent handwashing, respiratory etiquette, mask-wearing for symptomatic individuals, and avoiding crowded spaces.
Global Trends and Preparedness
Reports from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and China reveal a rise in HMPV-related respiratory infections, especially during winter. Despite these trends, the NCDC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and international partners like the World Health Organization (WHO), classified Nigeria’s HMPV risk as moderate following a recent dynamic risk assessment.
Dr. Idris dismissed rumors that the WHO has declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), urging Nigerians to disregard misinformation while remaining vigilant.
Health Security Reinforced
Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike, assured the public of robust health security measures, including intensified surveillance and awareness campaigns. He emphasized that there are no confirmed cases in Nigeria and the situation remains under control.
“Our systems are prepared and vigilant. This is not an emergency, but we are prioritizing public health through proactive measures at all entry points and health facilities,” Dr. Anyaike said.
HMPV, a virus capable of causing illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, primarily affects children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The NCDC urges Nigerians to practice personal hygiene and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
