Anietie Udobit, Abuja
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has instructed hospitals nationwide to enhance their Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures, in response to rising global concerns over Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
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The directive aims to safeguard public health amid increased HMPV activity reported in countries such as China, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.
Director-general of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, in a statement yesterday, emphasised the need for hospitals to implement rigorous IPC practices, which include proper hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, respiratory hygiene, and cough etiquette.
Also, all health facilities have been asked to designate appropriate isolation rooms for quick and efficient management of suspected HMPV cases.
Despite the global surge in HMPV cases, the NCDC reported no unusual increase in respiratory infections within Nigeria as of January 6, 2025. However, the DG stated that the agency remains vigilant, conducting dynamic risk assessments in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other international partners.
He said that the risk of HMPV in the country has been classified as moderate, prompting proactive measures to strengthen preparedness and response capacity.
The NCDC is also enhancing surveillance through its National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system and has extended testing for HMPV across its facilities, said Dr. Jide.
According to him, key actions include monitoring influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infections and supporting laboratories in states with international airports to test for HMPV.
To mitigate the potential spread of HMPV, the DG said that the NCDC was working with Port Health Authorities to bolster readiness at international points of entry.
HMPV, a respiratory virus, poses a higher risk to young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. It spreads through respiratory droplets, close personal contact, and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms range from mild cold-like signs to severe respiratory issues such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
The NCDC has issued public advisories urging citizens to practice good hand hygiene, maintain respiratory etiquette, avoid crowded places, and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
The agency reiterated the importance of relying on verified information from official channels to prevent misinformation.