FG Enhances Monitoring, Plans Quarantine for Passengers from China Amid New Virus Concerns

The Federal Government has announced the activation of heightened surveillance for inbound passengers from China following reports of a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that has strained healthcare facilities across northern Chinese provinces.
HMPV cases have risen sharply, particularly among children under 14 in northern China. The outbreak has overwhelmed hospitals, with social media footage showing overcrowded facilities and sparking fears of a larger health crisis.

Chinese authorities have implemented measures including:

• Monitoring and tracking pneumonia cases of unknown origin.
• Promoting mask-wearing and social distancing.
• Disinfecting public spaces to limit virus spread.

Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, stated on Friday that while respiratory infections often peak in winter, the current illnesses appear less severe and widespread compared to the previous year.
To mitigate the risk of importation, Nigeria plans to:

• Conduct enhanced screening and monitoring of passengers arriving from China.
• Quarantine individuals if necessary.

The Federal Government aims to proactively address potential risks, drawing on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in China five years ago and had a profound global impact.
Neighboring countries like Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Cambodia are also closely tracking the situation, reporting isolated cases but no significant outbreaks.

China has launched a pilot program to monitor and manage pneumonia of unknown origin effectively, reinforcing laboratory reporting and coordination across health agencies.