adminNigeria at Moderate Risk for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Says NCDC
Nigeria faces a moderate risk of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory virus, following a dynamic risk assessment conducted on January 6, 2025. The virus, which is currently spreading in China and other regions, can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, particularly affecting young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in collaboration with international partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), conducted the comprehensive assessment. This evaluation aims to guide Nigeria’s preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the potential impact of HMPV.
NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris, in a statement and public health advisory, debunked false reports suggesting that WHO had declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Idris assured the public that the NCDC is proactively strengthening measures to handle the threat, placing all ports of entry into Nigeria on alert.
“Our National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system, which monitors Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) across the country, has not shown any unusual increase in respiratory infections, including HMPV. However, we are enhancing our preparedness and response capacity in light of global trends,” Idris stated.
The NCDC has implemented several preparedness measures, including the development of an Entry Implementation Protocol for HMPV, approved by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare. This protocol will be distributed to all points of entry to guide response activities. Additionally, quarantine facilities are being prepared, and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials are being deployed to ensure adherence to hygiene and safety protocols.
Public awareness efforts are underway, with the distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to frontline staff and travelers. The NISS platform, already testing for COVID-19, will now include HMPV testing, with plans to expand testing capabilities in laboratories located in states with international airports.
Hospitals nationwide have been advised to enhance IPC practices, including proper hand hygiene and environmental cleaning. Health facilities are also required to prepare isolation rooms for potential cases. Training sessions are being conducted for healthcare workers to ensure effective case management.
In preparation for potential cases, the NCDC has stockpiled essential medical supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), laboratory reagents, and other necessary items for rapid deployment.
“We are actively engaging with the public to address concerns, dispel misinformation, and promote appropriate health-seeking behaviors. Our collaborative efforts with state governments, healthcare facilities, and trusted community voices demonstrate our commitment to maintaining public health safety,” Idris concluded.
