HMPV: NCDC directs hospitals to strengthen prevention

Worried by the rapid spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has directed hospitals nationwide to strengthen Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practices and to set aside an appropriate isolation room where cases can be quickly isolated while receiving care.

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in HMPV cases in China, as well as increased respiratory infections linked to HMPV in countries such as the United Kingdom (UK), France and Germany, particularly during the winter season.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted a notable rise in hospital admissions due to HMPV-related complications, especially among children under five and older adults in care homes.

In a statement, yesterday, in Abuja, the Director General, Dr Jide Idris, said the rise in HMPV cases indicated the need for heightened preparedness and vigilance.

He observed that in response to the increased HMPV activity in China and other affected regions, as well as the growing public interest in the matter, the NCDC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, was closely monitoring global developments and had implemented some actions to ensure public health safety.

According to Idris, the NCDC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, World Health Organisation (WHO), the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have conducted dynamic risk assessments of the HMPV and the assessment classified the risk as moderate for Nigeria. He observed that the evaluation would inform and guide preparedness efforts, decision-making and response strategies to mitigate potential impacts.

According to the Director General 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 weakened immune systems, adding that there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. He noted that the symptoms include cough Fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath and wheezing.

MEANWHILE, WHO has clarified that the rising circulation of respiratory viruses, particularly human metapneumovirus, in China aligns with typical winter patterns, with no emergency declarations amid growing attention to the matter. According to the UN body, common respiratory virus has been spreading in some countries in Asia, including China, India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan.