Nigeria adopts preventive measures against newly detected virus in China
The Nigerian government has ramped up surveillance at major international airports to prevent an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus recently detected in China.
The Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, directed port health officers to screen incoming passengers for symptoms of the virus.
Screenings are already underway at Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
A source at MMIA stated, “There is no cause for alarm as the Port Health Service has been mandated to start screening the passengers, and we are not taking anything to chance. The Port Health Officers are conducting the right check on passengers of foreign airlines as they arrive into the country.”
While the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has yet to issue an official circular to airlines regarding the screenings, the preventive measures evoke memories of the country’s proactive response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virus Spreads to New Territories
Globally, HMPV cases are rising, with infections reported in India, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Kazakhstan. The virus has also surged in the United Kingdom, with over 5,000 hospitalisations recently reported. The UK Health Security Agency highlighted a 10% infection rate among children under five, reflecting the virus’s impact on vulnerable populations.
NCDC and Experts Call for Vigilance
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) assured Nigerians that it is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. The agency dismissed rumours that the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
“We aim to provide timely, accurate information and guidance to keep the Nigerian public informed and prepared,” said Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC’s Director-General.
Read also: Airports to have mobile courts, try unruly passengers – NCAA
Public health experts have emphasised the need for heightened vigilance. Dr. Francis Ohanyido, Director-General of the West African Institute of Public Health, stressed the importance of preparedness, stating, “We have witnessed the devastating impact of COVID-19, and we cannot afford to be caught off guard again.”
Preventive Measures
The NCDC has issued guidelines to curb the spread of HMPV, including:
– Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
– Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
– Avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.
– Regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces.
– Seeking medical care promptly for severe symptoms, especially among children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
As the virus continues to spread globally, Nigeria’s proactive measures aim to protect its citizens while preparing for potential challenges. Public health officials have called for enhanced awareness, robust surveillance, and strengthened healthcare capacity to address this emerging threat.
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