The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has disclosed that quarantine facilities are being prepared to manage suspected cases of China’s Human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
NCDC Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, who gave an update via a public health advisory, said the World Health Organisation (WHO) reports declaring HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern are false and should be ignored.
Idris revealed that all ports of entry into Nigeria have been placed on alert, adding that the agency is proactively implementing measures to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capacity against the threat of the HMPV.
“Nigeria operates a National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system, comprising sentinel sites distributed across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
“These sites, which include tertiary and secondary health facilities, monitor Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).
“As of January 6, 2025, data from this surveillance system does not indicate any unusual increase in respiratory infections, including those caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
“However, given the global trends in HMPV cases, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is proactively implementing measures to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capacity.
“On January 6, 2025, the NCDC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and 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 a dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
“The assessment classified the risk of HMPV in Nigeria as moderate. This evaluation will inform and guide preparedness efforts, decision-making, and response strategies to mitigate potential impacts.
“An Entry Implementation Protocol on HMPV, approved by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, is being developed and will be distributed to all points of entry to guide response activities.
“In addition, quarantine facilities are being identified and prepared to manage any suspected or confirmed cases if required, even as Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials are being deployed to PoEs to ensure adherence to hygiene and safety protocols.
“Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials are being developed and distributed to raise awareness and provide clear guidelines for frontline staff and travellers at PoEs.
“The National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) sites across the six geopolitical zones monitor Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).
“This platform, which is already testing for COVID-19, will now also start testing for HMPV. Provisions will be made to increase the number of tests conducted. Additionally, laboratories in states with international airports will be supported to enable them to test for HMPV.
“Advisories have been issued to hospitals nationwide on enhanced IPC practices, including proper hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, respiratory hygiene, and cough etiquette.
“All health facilities are required to identify an appropriate isolation room where cases can be quickly isolated while receiving care.
”Collaborating with state governments and healthcare facilities to provide training for healthcare workers to ensure adequate case management teams are in place and ready to respond if needed.
“This will ensure that healthcare workers are able to provide appropriate care and maintain a high index of suspicion. Supportive care and an emphasis on a high index of suspicion are crucial.
“We are requesting state governments to activate their treatment centres or isolation centres to ensure they are prepared to manage cases appropriately.
“We are engaging with the public through clear and accurate messages to address concerns, dispel misinformation, and encourage appropriate health-seeking behaviours.
“We work in close collaboration with state risk communication and community engagement pillars, health educators, and other trusted voices, such as the media.
“These efforts reflect NCDC’s commitment to proactive coordination and response at all levels of public health,” he said.