No immediate risk of human metapneumovirus infection – NCDC tells Nigerians
By Kunle Sanni
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that there is no immediate risk of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in the country, despite reports of rising cases globally.
The agency made this statement following reports of thousands of HMPV-related hospitalizations, particularly among children, in China.
In its statement, the NCDC outlined proactive measures taken to prevent the potential spread of the respiratory virus in Nigeria. These include enhanced surveillance at Points of Entry (PoEs), development of an HMPV Entry Implementation Protocol approved by the Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, and the identification of quarantine facilities for suspected or confirmed cases.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, emphasized the agency’s preparedness efforts, stating:
“We have deployed Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials and provided training for frontline workers and healthcare facilities nationwide. Sentinel surveillance sites across Nigeria are monitoring Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI), now including HMPV testing.”
The NCDC’s statement followed a dynamic risk assessment conducted on January 6 in collaboration with global health partners. While the risk of HMPV in Nigeria was classified as moderate, Dr. Idris clarified that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), dispelling circulating rumors.
However, Dr. Idris acknowledged reports from countries such as the UK, France, and Germany showing increased HMPV cases, particularly among children under five and older adults. “These global trends underscore the importance of heightened preparedness and vigilance,” he added.
Preventive Measures for the Public
The NCDC urged Nigerians to adopt preventive measures similar to those for other respiratory infections:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid crowded spaces.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Symptomatic individuals should self-isolate and seek prompt medical care.
Healthcare workers were also advised to maintain strict IPC practices, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and promptly report unusual spikes in infections.
What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that causes illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections. It primarily affects young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
As of January 6, surveillance data from Nigeria’s National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system has not indicated any unusual increases in respiratory infections.
The NCDC assured Nigerians of its commitment to monitoring both global and domestic developments while enhancing preparedness to safeguard public health.
