The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced enhanced surveillance measures for passengers arriving from China, following the outbreak of a new respiratory virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
The virus, which is spreading across northern China, has raised concerns, particularly as hospitals in affected areas struggle to manage increasing cases, especially among children.
Although neighboring regions like Cambodia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have reported isolated cases, no significant outbreaks have been recorded outside China. The virus, which typically causes mild respiratory symptoms, is most prevalent during the winter season, similar to other cold viruses.
Chinese authorities have reported a rise in HMPV cases among children under 14 and have implemented measures such as monitoring cases, encouraging mask usage, maintaining physical distancing, and sanitizing public spaces. The outbreak comes nearly five years after the emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, which has since infected 777 million people and caused over seven million deaths globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
While both HMPV and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses, they differ in severity. HMPV generally causes symptoms like cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, with more severe cases potentially leading to bronchitis or pneumonia. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that HMPV spreads through coughing, sneezing, close contact, and touching contaminated surfaces, with an incubation period of three to six days.
Responding to the outbreak, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reassured the public, stating: “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year.”
In Nigeria, Dr. John Oladejo of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed that the government will implement surveillance measures, including potential quarantine protocols, for travelers arriving from China. Medical experts have commended the move, urging that such vigilance should remain a continuous practice to safeguard public health.
The WHO is closely monitoring the situation and has advised people in affected areas to follow recommended health guidelines, such as vaccination, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks, improving indoor ventilation, and practicing regular handwashing.
HMPV, first identified in Pakistan in 2001, has caused outbreaks in Asia but remains unfamiliar in Africa, with no cases reported on the continent to date. Experts believe Nigeria’s proactive measures will help mitigate any potential risks associated with the virus.
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