The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) says, as Nigeria’s foremost research agency, it is prepared to tackle any outbreak including the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, if the need arises.
The Director -General, NIMR, Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa gave assurance at the heal of the outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, saying, “We wish to assure the general public that the Institute is fully prepared “.
Professor Obafunwa explained that NIMR is in close contact with and will collaborate with relevant government agencies and institutions as the nation intensifies efforts to strengthen its preparedness for all health emergencies.
He says, ” NIMR also aligns with the views and positions already expounded by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). ” We hereby enjoin the public to adhere to the public health advisory enunciated by the agency. “
It will be recalled that, on Tuesday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said, it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has not received any reports of unusual outbreak patterns of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
In its latest disease outbreak report on HMPV, WHO says a report from Chinese authorities indicated that the country’s health care system is not overwhelmed and that no emergency declarations or responses have been triggered.
“In many countries of the Northern Hemisphere, trends in acute respiratory infections are on the rise at this time of year. These increases are typically caused by seasonal epidemics of respiratory pathogens such as seasonal influenza, RSV, and other common respiratory viruses, including hMPV, as well as mycoplasma pneumonia”.
” The co-circulation of multiple respiratory pathogens during the winter season can sometimes cause an increased burden on health care systems treating sick persons,” WHO says.
WHO however recommends that individuals in areas where it is winter take normal precautions to prevent the spread and reduce risks posed by respiratory pathogens, especially to the most vulnerable.
” People with mild symptoms should stay home to avoid infecting other people and rest, adding that, those at high risk or with complicated or severe symptoms should seek medical care as soon as possible.
Advising Individuals to consider wearing a nose mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, they should cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow, practice regular hand-washing, and get recommended vaccines as per physician and local public health authorities.
WHO advises Member States to maintain surveillance for respiratory pathogens through an integrated approach, considering country context, priorities, resources and capacities.
Based on the current risk assessment, WHO advises against any travel or trade restrictions related to current trends in acute respiratory infections.
According to the US Centre for Disease Control, ” the Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in people of all ages, especially among young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems” WHO warns.