By Adenike Lawal
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has assured the public that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), poses no immediate threat to Nigeria, despite global concerns over outbreaks.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and has long been associated with respiratory infections, particularly in children and the elderly.
He likened it to other common respiratory viruses like influenza, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm.
Dr. Idris confirmed that no cases of HMPV have been reported in Nigeria, but the NCDC remains on high alert, closely monitoring the situation in line with World Health Organization (WHO), guidelines.
He cited Nigeria’s experience in handling Ebola and COVID-19, highlighting the country’s strengthened public health infrastructure to tackle potential outbreaks.
To prevent respiratory infections, he urged Nigerians to maintain good hygiene and avoid crowded places.
