The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that it is ramping up national vigilance in response to rising global concerns over human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The agency is implementing preparedness and response measures to address the virus should it be detected in the country.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, the NCDC revealed that a dynamic risk assessment conducted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and partners has classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate.
While global reports indicate a surge in HMPV cases, particularly in countries like China, the NCDC emphasized that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not declared the virus a public health emergency of international concern. Nigerians are urged to rely only on credible information from sources like the NCDC and WHO.
Dr. Idris advised citizens to adopt preventive measures, including regular hand washing, practicing respiratory hygiene, and avoiding crowded spaces. “Preventive measures remain our strongest defense against the virus,” he stated.
HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause a range of illnesses, from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and fever management, remains the primary approach to recovery.
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