In response to the recent outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), first identified in China and now spreading to other nations, the Nigerian government has intensified health surveillance at major international airports to prevent the virus from entering the country. The virus has already been reported in countries including India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan, prompting global concern.

HMPV, known for causing respiratory infections, has also led to significant health challenges in the United Kingdom, where over 5,000 hospitalizations were recently reported. With the potential for further international spread, the Nigerian government is taking proactive measures to safeguard public health.

The Nigerian Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, has directed port health officers at major airports such as Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to commence screening all arriving passengers for symptoms of the virus. This preventive step mirrors the vigilance shown during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when Nigeria recorded its first confirmed case from a passenger arriving at MMIA.

An official at MMIA reassured the public, stating, “There is no cause for alarm as the Port Health Service has been mandated to start screening passengers, and we are not taking anything for granted.” The official confirmed that port health officers are diligently checking passengers arriving on international flights.

Although the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has yet to issue formal guidance to airlines regarding passenger health checks, authorities remain vigilant. As of press time, Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, had not provided comments on the issue.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued an advisory signed by its Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, emphasizing its active monitoring of the situation in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The advisory assured the public of accurate, timely information and guidance.

The NCDC also dispelled circulating rumors suggesting that the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), urging Nigerians to disregard such misinformation.

Recent data shows a rapid rise in HMPV cases in China and increased respiratory infections in the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, particularly during the winter season. SaharaReporters noted a significant increase in flu cases in the UK, with 4,102 hospitalizations recorded on Christmas Day, escalating to 5,074 by December 29.

Hospitals across the UK are grappling with multiple viruses, including norovirus, RSV, COVID-19, and flu. Reports indicate 723 norovirus hospitalizations in the week ending December 22, a 40% rise from the same period last year. Additionally, an average of 74 children were hospitalized daily due to RSV last week, a near 50% increase from the same period in 2023.

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has responded to heightened winter pressures by opening 1,301 additional hospital beds compared to the same period last year. Despite these efforts, an average of 648 more beds were occupied daily compared to 2023 figures.

With Human Metapneumovirus emerging as a global health concern, Nigeria's proactive surveillance measures underscore its commitment to preventing the virus's entry and spread. Public health authorities continue to monitor developments, ensuring preparedness and public safety amid this evolving challenge.