Health

NCDC Issues Public Health Advisory On Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.

Published

1 year ago

January 7, 2025

OCHEFA

279 Views

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued the following Public Health Advisory on Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Awareness, Preparedness, and Prevention.

The document released by, Dr. Jide Idris, the Director – GeneralNigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, said :

” NCDC is committed to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians. In response to recent reports of increased Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) activity in China and other affected regions, as well as growing public interest in the matter, the NCDC in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is closely monitoring global developments.

We aim to provide timely, accurate information and guidance to keep the Nigerian public informed and prepared. Global situation update.

It is important to note that the rumor circulating about the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is false and should be disregarded.

The WHO has not made such a declaration. Recent reports indicate a significant rise in Human Metapneumovirus (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.

This trend emphasizes the need for heightened preparedness and vigilance.

Current Situation in Nigeria

Nigeria operates a National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system, comprising sentinel sites distributed across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

These sites, which include tertiary and secondary health facilities, monitor Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).

As of January 6, 2025, data from this surveillance system does not indicate any unusual increase in respiratory infections, including those caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

However, given the global trends in HMPV cases, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is proactively implementing measures to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capacity.

NCDC Preparedness Measures

The NCDC is closely monitoring the situation and has implemented the following actions to ensure public health safety:

1. Dynamic Risk Assessment

On January 6, 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC), and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), conducted a dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

The assessment classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate.

This evaluation will inform and guide preparedness efforts, decision-making, and response strategies to mitigate potential impacts.

2. Public Health Advisory:

Issued this advisory to provide Nigerians with up-to-date information on preparedness actions and preventive measures.

3. Point of Entry (POE):

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in collaboration with Port Health Authorities, is taking proactive steps to ensure robust preparedness at all international points of entry (PoEs) in response to the dynamic risk assessment for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

These measures are designed to mitigate the potential risk of HMPV transmission through international travel. Key actions include

▪︎ Conducting a comprehensive situation analysis at all international PoEs to assess current readiness levels.

▪︎ An Entry Implementation Protocol on HMPV, approved by the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, is being developed and will be distributed to all points of entry to guide response activities.

▪︎ In addition, quarantine facilities are being identified and prepared to manage any suspected or confirmed cases if required.

▪︎ Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials are being deployed to PoEs to ensure adherence to hygiene and safety protocols.

▪︎ Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials are being developed and distributed to raise awareness and provide clear guidelines for frontline staff and travelers at PoEs.

4. Enhanced Surveillance and Laboratory Diagnosis:

The National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) sites across the six geopolitical zones monitor Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).

This platform, which is already testing for COVID-19, will now also start testing for HMPV. Provisions will be made to increase the number of tests conducted.

Additionally, laboratories in states with international airports will be supported to enable them to test for HMPV.

5. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC):

Advisories have been issued to hospitals nationwide on enhanced IPC practices, including proper hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, respiratory hygiene, and cough etiquette.

All health facilities are required to identify an appropriate isolation room where cases can be quickly isolated while receiving care.

6. Case Management Preparedness:

Collaborating with state governments and healthcare facilities to provide training for healthcare workers to ensure adequate case management teams are in place and ready to respond if needed.

This will ensure that healthcare workers are able to provide appropriate care and maintain a high index of suspicion. Supportive care and an emphasis on a high index of suspicion are crucial.

We are requesting state governments to activate their treatment centers or isolation centers to ensure they are prepared to manage cases appropriately.

7. Stockpiling of Medical Countermeasures:

Relevant materials such as PPEs (face masks, hand gloves, hand hygiene supplies, and other essential IPC items) have been stockpiled for rapid deployment if required.

Additionally, laboratory consumables, reagents, and other necessary supplies have also been stockpiled to ensure readiness.

Risk Communication and Community Engagement:Engaging with the public through clear and accurate messages to address concerns, dispel misinformation, and encourage appropriate health-seeking behaviors.

We work in close collaboration with state risk communication and community engagement pillars, health educators, and other trusted voices, such as the media.

These efforts reflect NCDC’s commitment to proactive coordination and response at all levels of public health.

Public Advisory What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus (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

• Individuals with weakened immune systems

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.

Supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and fever management, remains the primary approach to recovery.

Symptoms

• Cough

• Fever

• Nasal congestion

• Shortness of breath

• Wheezing

• Bronchitis or pneumonia (in vulnerable populations such as very young children, older people, patients with low immunity such and those on cancer treatment, uncontrolled diabetes etc).

The incubation period is 3-5 days after exposure, and infections typically resolve within 2-5 days with supportive care.

We urge the public to adhere to the preventive measures outlined above and to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms consistent with HMPV infection.

However, high-risk populations may experience complications.

Transmission HMPV spreads through:

• Respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing

• Close personal contact (e.g., touching or shaking hands)

• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.

Overcrowding and poor ventilation can lead to increased transmission, e.g., in congregate settings such as correctional centers and poorly managed IDPs.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of HMPV infection, the public is advised to follow these preventive steps:

For the General Public:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Cover your mouth an nose with face mask if you are experiencing flu like symptoms.

• Avoid Close Contact: Maintain distance from individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness.

• Avoid overcrowded places.

• Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Self-Isolation: Stay home if experiencing symptoms to prevent spreading the virus. As is correct parctice and seek medical care from appropriate sources.

Protecting Vulnerable Groups:

• Young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions such as people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, on cancer treatment, immunicompromised paients or those with low immunity should seek prompt medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms. Healthcare Guidance

For Healthcare Workers:

• Reinforce Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in healthcare facilities.

• Enhance surveillance for acute respiratory infections and report unusual increases to the relevant authorities. Index of suspiciona nd enhanced

• Use appropriate PPE when attending to patients with respiratory symptoms.

• Educate patients on preventive measures and when to seek emergency medical care.

• Provide symptomatic care and promptly refer severe cases to specialist facilities.

Conclusion

The NCDC remains dedicated to protecting the health of Nigerians through continuous surveillance and prompt response to infectious diseases.

We urge the public to adhere to the preventive measures outlined above and to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms consistent with HMPV infection.

We also emphasize the importance of relying on verified information from the NCDC and WHO.

For emergencies, please contact the NCDC’s toll-free line at 6232 or email us at info@ncdc.gov.ng.

Together, we can protect our communities from respiratory infections and ensure a healthier Nigeria.

Contact Information • Toll-Free Number: 6232 • SMS: *** • WhatsApp: *** • Twitter: @NCDCGov • Facebook: @NCDCgov • Instagram: @NCDCgov

Related Topics:Featured HMPV public advisory Human Metapneumovirus

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Federal Ministry of Health Orders Immediate Retirement of Directors After 8-Year Tenure

Published

15 hours ago

February 17, 2026

Charles Flames

17 Views

The Federal Ministry of Health has directed the immediate retirement of all directors who have served at least eight years in the directorate cadre, effective from December 31, 2025.

The directive, outlined in a memo signed by Tetshoma Dafeta, Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, enforces the eight-year tenure policy for directors as stipulated in Section 020909 of the Revised Public Service Rules 2021.

It applies to directors across the ministry, federal hospitals, agencies, and parastatals under its supervision.

The move aligns with a broader Federal Government circular from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, which reiterated the compulsory retirement rule for directors (Grade Level 17 or equivalent) after eight years in the position, as part of efforts to ensure compliance across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The policy has sparked concerns from the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), which has criticized what it describes as selective implementation of retirement age reviews in the health sector.

JOHESU argues that such policies favor certain cadres over others, potentially undermining equity, teamwork, morale, and overall efficiency in healthcare delivery.

The ministry’s action follows recent government-wide enforcement of tenure limits for senior civil servants, including permanent secretaries. Affected directors are to be disengaged immediately, with institutions required to implement the directive without delay.

Health

More than 95,000 died of suicide so far in 2026 — WHO

Certain vulnerable populations face disproportionately higher risks, including refugees and migrants, indigenous peoples, LGBTI persons, prisoners, and others who experience discrimination, social exclusion or limited access to support services.

Published

2 weeks ago

February 4, 2026

OCHEFA

72 Views

World Health Organization (WHO) data reported that more than 95,000 people have died by suicide globally since the start of 2026.

According to Worldometer, the figure as of the time of this report, stands at 95, 406 so far in 2026.

The early-year toll highlights the continuing scale of suicide as a major global public health challenge.

WHO estimates show that about 727, 000 people die by suicide every year worldwide, with millions more attempting to take their own lives.

Health experts note that while annual suicide figures are usually released with a reporting delay, real-time counters help illustrate how frequently lives are lost to a largely preventable cause.

Suicide occurs across all regions and age groups, but WHO data indicate that it remains one of the leading causes of death among young people aged 15 to 29, ranking third globally in that age group in 2021.

The impact extends far beyond individuals, leaving long-lasting emotional, social and economic consequences for families, communities and entire nations.

Contrary to common assumptions, suicide is not limited to high-income countries.

WHO reports that nearly three-quarters (73%) of global suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, where access to mental health care and social support services is often limited.

While suicide is closely linked to mental health conditions such as depression and alcohol use disorders, particularly in high-income countries,WHO notes that many suicides occur impulsively during moments of acute crisis.

These crises may stem from financial stress, relationship conflicts, chronic pain, illness, exposure to violence, displacement, or a profound sense of isolation.

WHO stresses that suicide is preventable and requires a coordinated public health response rather than isolated interventions.

Evidence-based and often low-cost measures, such as restricting access to lethal means, promoting responsible media reporting, strengthening life skills among adolescents, and ensuring early identification and follow-up care for those at risk, have been shown to save

Health

WHO: United States membership withdrawal takes effect

Reacting to the development, WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed regret over the decision and urged the United States to reconsider.

Published

4 weeks ago

January 23, 2026

OCHEFA

115 Views

The United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially took effect on Thursday, exactly one year after President Donald Trump ordered the country to pull out of the global health body.

Under the terms governing WHO membership, a withdrawal becomes effective after a mandatory one-year notice period, which expired on Thursday 22 January, following the executive order signed by Trump shortly after he took office in 2025.

Although the agreement requires the United States to settle all outstanding financial obligations before withdrawal, that condition has not been met. However, the WHO has no legal mechanism to enforce payment or prevent a member state from exiting the organisation.

Reacting to the development, WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed regret over the decision and urged the United States to reconsider.

“The withdrawal is a loss for the United States and also a loss for the rest of the world,” Tedros said, adding that the organisation remains open to the country’s return.

President Trump had justified the decision by accusing the WHO of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China, as well as other global health emergencies.

He also cited the organisation’s alleged failure to implement necessary reforms and its inability to operate independently of political influence from member states.