The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) declared yesterday that Nigeria is not at risk yet of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection.
In China, thousands of people, especially children, had been hospitalised due to the infection.
The centre, apart from its advisory, also introduced COVID-19-like protocols at the airports and borders.
It listed the measures taken as comprehensive situation analysis at Points of Entry (PoEs); development of an HMPV Entry Implementation Protocol as approved by the Health Minister Prof. Ali Pate and the identification of quarantine facilities for managing suspected or confirmed cases.
NCDC Director-General (DG) Jide Idris said that following the dynamic risk assessment, the agency, in collaboration with others, is strengthening its preparedness at the PoEs, among other steps, to mitigate the potential transmission of HMPV through international travel.
In the health advisory, he emphasized that HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact, and touching contaminated surfaces, all of which should be avoided.
Idris noted that overcrowding and poor ventilation, particularly in settings like Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps or correctional facilities, significantly increase the risk of transmission.
To reduce the risk of infection, he urged the members of the public to wash hands frequently with soap and water, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wear a mask if symptomatic.
He also advised that crowded spaces should be avoided, maintain distance from sick individuals, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and self-isolate if unwell while seeking prompt medical care.
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, and individuals with weaker immune systems.
Idris assured that, the agency, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, is closely monitoring global developments.