HMPV: Nigerian Govt Takes Action As New Virus Spreads in China
- China is reportedly battling with new cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus
- While many fear this may be the next pandemic in the world, the Nigerian government has activated surveillance measures to curb the spread in the country
- Interestingly, FG's focus is on public health safety but WHO and the NCDC have recommended preventive steps amid the rising cases of respiratory infection in China
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Legit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements.
As China grapples with a surge in respiratory illnesses, the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is taking centre stage in public health discussions.
Source: UGC
But the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Sunday, January 5, said it will activate surveillance measures for inbound passengers from China following the current surge of a respiratory virus.
How HMPV virus is spreading in China
Recent reports indicated that the virus has led to overcrowded hospitals, emergency measures and public concerns in China.
NairaMetrics reported that the virus shares some concerning similarities with the COVID-19 virus, leading to heightened vigilance among health authorities. HMPV has joined influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and COVID-19 in contributing to an alarming rise in respiratory infections.
Amidst the winter infection spike, China’s disease control authorities have rolled out a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin aimed at addressing potential threats posed by HMPV and other pathogens. Though not declared an emergency, the rise of HMPV underscores the importance of understanding its transmission and impact on public health.
As reported by The Punch, the virus, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.
This happened five years after the world battled with the COVID-19 crisis.
HMPV virus: Chinese, Nigerian govt take action
In response to the spread of the virus and new cases, the Chinese government announced measures, including constant monitoring of cases, the adoption of masks, social distancing and disinfection of public spaces to curb the increase of the virus.
Also, health authorities in Nigeria are already implementing emergency measures to monitor and manage the spread of the HMPV.
The director, special duties, Office of the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr John Oladejo, disclosed to the press on Sunday that:
“The FG will activate surveillance measures, like quarantine, for passengers coming in from China.”
Based on the available information, WHO recommended that people in China follow measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness.
WHO urged the public to stay away from people who are ill, stay home when ill, and get tested and medical care as needed.
Read related articles on viruses and other diseases here:
- No new COVID-19 variant detected in Nigeria, Health Ministry confirms
- US donates 10,000 Mpox vaccines to Nigeria, details emerge
- WHO declares outbreak of Mpox in Africa
NCDC announces alarming rise in Lassa Fever
In another development, Legit.ng reported that Nigeria has recorded 1,035 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 380 Cerebrospinal Meningitis cases, resulting in a significant number of deaths across various states.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) emphasizes improved surveillance and community awareness as key factors in identifying these cases.
Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC Director-General, outlines the challenges and preventive measures being undertaken to combat these public health threats.
Proofreading by Nkem Ikeke, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
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