Experts task Nigeria on vigilance, preparedness

By Babagana Jidda

Kanempress

January 7, 2025

Experts have charged Nigerian Government on vigilance and early preparedness against the outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) recently discovered in China.

The Director-General , West African Institute of Public Health, Dr Francis Ohanyido
urged Nigerian and African governments to be vigilant and proactive in preparing for the potential spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) beyond China.

Dr Ohanyido said: “We have witnessed the devastating impact of COVID-19, and we cannot afford to be caught off guard again.”

He said to mitigate the risks, governments must take immediate action to enhance surveillance and monitoring, launch public awareness and education campaigns, build healthcare capacity, promote vaccination and infection control, foster research and collaboration, and develop emergency preparedness plans.

Dr Ohanyido also said building on past lessons with Ebola and COVID-19 community health literacy strategies deployed very early should be at the heart of all interventions.

He said, “By taking these proactive measures, we can protect the health and well-being of our citizens and prevent the spread of HMPV. Let us work together to prioritize public health and safety.”

Similarly, Professor Oluwasogo Olalubi of Department of Public Health, Kwara State University, Malete, said the federal government requires swift, coordinated and flexible action to prepare to contain the viral disease.

Professor Olalubi said, “Emerging viruses, which often come with limited knowledge of their transmission, severity, or treatment, present unique challenges. But early preparation is crucial which includes strengthening and upscaling our laboratories.”

He also emphasized the need for massive awareness and leverage of technological tools like google maps and phones through SMS and creating awareness.

The Professor said: “Clear communication strategies are vital. This includes educating the public on hygiene practices, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when and where to seek medical help.

“Our surveillance system must be strong for early detection including monitoring and reporting from airport and health clinics, hospitals and labs. Monitoring wet markets or areas of human-animal interaction are essential,” Professor Olalubi maintained.

The expert said the federal government should further maintain reserves of critical supplies like personal protective equipment (PPE), antiviral drugs, oxygen, and ventilators.

“Although vaccines and antivirals may not be available for new diseases initially, preparedness includes the development of platforms (e.g., mRNA vaccines) that can be adapted quickly”, he said.

Professor Olalubi
said once initial cases are detected, the immediate goal is to isolate infected individuals and their contacts to limit further transmission.

He said that there may also be a need to Implement travel restrictions or enhanced screening at airports or border points to contain the virus’s spread.

Information about HMPV

It 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.

The symptoms are 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.

Preventive measures

To reduce the risk of HMPV infection, NCDC advised the public 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 and 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, immunocompromised patients or those with low immunity should seek prompt medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms.