By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and prevention (NCDC) says the country is strengthening national vigilance amid rising global concerns over human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and implementing preparedness measures as well as response capacity to tackle the virus, should it emerge.
This was disclosed In a statement signed by Dr Jide Idris, NCDC Director-General, states that a dynamic risk assessment conducted for human metapneumovirus in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of health and partners classifies the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate.
With reports indicating a surge in HMPV cases in countries like China, the NCDC clarifies that the world health organisation has not declared HMPV a public health emergency of international concerns asking Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible sources like the NCDC and WHO.
Dr. Idris also urged citizens to adopt preventive measures such as regular hand washing, respiratory hygiene, and avoiding crowded places.
HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and fever management, remain the primary approach to recovery.
