The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that it is closely monitoring global developments related to the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing concern in several countries.
In a public health advisory issued Monday night, NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, reassured Nigerians that there is currently no unusual spike in respiratory infections linked to HMPV within the country. However, he emphasized that the agency is proactively enhancing preparedness to address any potential threats.
Dr. Idris confirmed that surveillance data from the National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system—covering health facilities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones—has not shown any abnormal rise in respiratory infections, including those caused by HMPV.
“As of January 6, 2025, data from this surveillance system does not indicate any unusual increase in respiratory infections, including those caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV),” Idris stated.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged global trends, including a surge in HMPV-related infections in countries like China, the UK, France, and Germany, especially during the winter season. In the UK, for instance, health authorities have reported rising hospital admissions among children under five and older adults in care homes due to HMPV complications.
To mitigate risks, the NCDC is collaborating with Port Health Authorities to bolster preparedness at Nigeria’s international points of entry (PoEs). An Entry Implementation Protocol for HMPV, approved by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, is currently under development and will soon be distributed to guide response efforts.
Key measures include:
– Identifying and preparing quarantine facilities for managing suspected or confirmed cases.
– Deploying Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials at PoEs to enforce hygiene and safety protocols.
– Conducting dynamic risk assessments to ensure Nigeria’s readiness to respond to potential outbreaks.
Dr. Idris also addressed circulating rumors that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). He categorically dismissed the claim, stating, “The WHO has not made such a declaration.”
The NCDC is urging Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant. The agency emphasized the importance of maintaining good respiratory hygiene, such as regular handwashing, proper mask usage, and avoiding crowded places when experiencing flu-like symptoms.
With the global uptick in HMPV cases serving as a wake-up call, Nigeria’s public health authorities are taking no chances. Dr. Idris affirmed that the NCDC’s proactive stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding the nation against emerging health threats.