HMPV: Nigeria Not Facing Serious Threat – NCDC

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reassured citizens that the country is not currently under any significant threat from the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

Amid global concerns about the virus, the NCDC has stated there is no cause for alarm in Nigeria. Speaking during an interview on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television program, NCDC Director-General Jide Idris said, “There is no serious threat for now. HMPV is not a new virus but is relatively unknown. It has been linked to respiratory infections, especially among children and the elderly, over the years.”

He explained that the virus is similar to the flu and other respiratory infections, emphasizing that no cases have been reported in Nigeria.

“We are currently in a monitoring and alert phase,” Idris added. “We take guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) as every country is required to report potential global health risks. This ensures proper preparation across the board.”

He further noted that Nigeria has improved its public health infrastructure following previous outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19, enabling the country to respond effectively to health threats.

As a precaution, the NCDC advised citizens to avoid overcrowded areas, maintain proper hand hygiene, and take other preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.