The Federal Government has announced plans to activate surveillance protocols for travelers arriving from China, in response to a surge in cases of a respiratory virus.
Reports indicate that the virus, identified as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), has overwhelmed hospitals and raised public concerns in China, particularly in northern provinces. The outbreak has been most severe among children under the age of 14, prompting emergency measures and social media discussions about a potential health crisis.
Neighboring regions, including Cambodia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, are also monitoring the situation closely. While these areas have reported isolated cases of HMPV, no widespread outbreaks have been documented so far.
Chinese health authorities have implemented strategies to curb the spread, such as intensified monitoring, mask-wearing, social distancing, and regular disinfection of public spaces.
In Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is taking proactive steps to mitigate the risk of the virus spreading. John Oladejo, the Director of Special Duties at the NCDC, confirmed to Punch that surveillance measures will include monitoring and possible quarantine for passengers arriving from China.
“The Federal Government will activate surveillance measures, like quarantine, for passengers coming in from China,” Oladejo stated.
