By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said from its assessments in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and partners conducted a dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and therefore classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate.

This was contained in a statement by NCDC, by Director General, NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, made available to journalists in Abuja. The DG therefore said the nation has proactively implemented measures to strengthen its preparedness and response capacity.The statement reads in part, “The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is committed to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians. In response to recent reports of increased Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) activity in China and other affected regions, as well as growing public interest in the matter, the NCDC in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is closely monitoring global developments. We aim to provide timely, accurate information and guidance to keep the Nigerian public informed and prepared.”It is important to note that the rumor circulating about the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is false and should be disregarded. The WHO has not made such a declaration. Recent reports indicate a significant rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, as well as increased respiratory infections linked to HMPV in countries such as the United Kingdom (UK), France, and Germany, particularly during the winter season. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted a notable rise in hospital admissions due to HMPV-related complications, especially among children under five and older adults in care homes. This trend emphasizes the need for heightened preparedness and vigilance.”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 Illness (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.”The NCDC is closely monitoring the situation and has implemented the following actions to ensure public health safety:Dynamic Risk AssessmentOn January 6, 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (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 HealthSecurity Agency (UKHSA), conducted a dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). The assessment classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate. This evaluation will inform and guide preparedness efforts, decision-making, and response strategies to mitigate potential impacts”.He continued, “Point of Entry (POE): The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in collaboration with Port Health Authorities, is taking proactive steps to ensure robust preparedness at all international points of entry (PoEs) in response to the dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). These measures are designed to mitigate the potential risk of HMPV transmission through international travel. Key actions include; “Conducting a comprehensive situation analysis at all international PoEs to assess current readiness levels.An Entry Implementation Protocol on HMPV, approved by the Honourable 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.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 travelers at PoEs”.He said advisories have also 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.Human Metapneumovirus (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, Individuals with weakened immune systems.