The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that Nigeria is at a “moderate” risk level for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and is closely monitoring the situation.
In a recent public health advisory, the NCDC assured the public that the Federal Government is actively assessing the outbreak of HMPV, with measures being taken to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response efforts.
The agency emphasized that the NCDC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has conducted a risk assessment, which classified Nigeria’s risk as moderate.
“The results of this evaluation will inform Nigeria’s preparedness and response strategies to help mitigate any potential impact,” the advisory, released late Monday, stated.
The NCDC is working to provide Nigerians with timely and accurate information to ensure public awareness.
Additionally, the agency, in collaboration with Port Health Authorities, is taking preventive actions to strengthen surveillance at international points of entry to reduce the potential risk of HMPV transmission.
While some reports have falsely claimed that the WHO declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the NCDC clarified that this is not true.
The WHO has not made such a declaration. However, the NCDC noted a significant increase in HMPV cases in countries like China, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, especially during the winter months, with hospital admissions rising, particularly among children under five and elderly adults.
The advisory reiterated the importance of heightened vigilance and preparedness as the situation develops.
