By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced it will enforce surveillance and quarantine measures for passengers arriving from China in response to a recent surge in COVID-related respiratory infections, particularly the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
The virus, which is spiking in northern China, has caused widespread hospital overcrowding, especially among children.
Health authorities, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), are taking immediate action to prevent the spread of this respiratory illness by closely monitoring travelers from China.
Dr. John Oladejo of the NCDC confirmed that quarantine protocols will be implemented for those arriving from China to curb the potential spread of the virus in Nigeria.
The HMPV, which has been reported in neighboring countries like Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Cambodia, is spreading through respiratory droplets and primarily affects young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Despite being less severe than COVID-19, experts stress the importance of continued surveillance to avoid a major outbreak. Virologists emphasize that Nigeria’s proactive measures could help prevent the virus from spreading, urging continuous vigilance at all entry posts
