The human metapneumovirus (HMPV), though not a newly discovered virus, is gaining attention in Africa as nations brace for illnesses reminiscent of the COVID-19 scare.

• HMPV, a respiratory virus, is gaining attention in Africa amid rising cases in China
• Unlike COVID-19, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV
• African nations and global health organizations are closely monitoring the situation and implementing measures to prevent spread

A surge in HMPV cases, particularly among children under 14 in northern China, has raised global concern.

First identified in 2001, HMPV is a single-stranded RNA virus transmitted via respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and fatigue typically appear within an incubation period of three to six days.

Mode of attack/spread

HMPV enters the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes, typically after inhaling droplets from an infected person coughing, sneezing, or breathing, or after touching contaminated surfaces.

These modes of transmission are similar to those of the common cold, flu, and other respiratory viruses.

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Unlike Covid-19, HMPV has no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with care focusing primarily on managing symptoms

The spike in HMPV cases coincides with colder weather and increased indoor activity, conditions that generally encourage the spread of respiratory viruses.

Chinese health officials emphasize that this surge aligns with seasonal trends and the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has noted a rise in respiratory infections, including HMPV, during the winter months.

While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not flagged HMPV as a global health emergency, countries across the world are closely monitoring the situation.

The WHO, in a statement noted that “the observed increase in respiratory pathogen detections is within the range expected for this time of year during the Northern hemisphere winter.”

Some African nations however, have issued statements and heightened security at their entry points while several other countries are on high alert to combat the virus’s spread.

As of Wednesday, January 8 2025, statements and alerts have been sighted from nine African Nations and they include;

Nigeria

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory to enhance awareness and preparedness against Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) following outbreaks in China and other regions.

The NCDC is implementing stringent measures at points of entry, including infection prevention protocols, quarantine facilities, and an HMPV Entry Implementation Protocol for international travelers.

NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris reassured Nigerians of the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health and addressing potential risks effectively.

South Africa

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), South Africa’s public health institute, has issued a statement on the new HVD virus. Based on its risk assessment, the agency considers the risk of importing respiratory illnesses from China to be low.

The NICD highlighted its robust syndromic respiratory illness surveillance system and the Outbreak Response Unit’s event-based monitoring, which will track local data and respond to any unusual disease patterns.

Kenya

Kenya’s Ministry of Health (MoH) has reassured the public about the low risk of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak, despite a recent surge in China.

The MoH noted that HMPV, which affects vulnerable groups such as young children and older adults, is not new and has been previously documented as a contributor to respiratory illnesses in Kenya.

The ministry confirmed no surge in respiratory diseases nationwide and urged Kenyans to stay vigilant and maintain basic public health practices.

Egypt

Egypt’s Ministry of Health confirmed no HMPV cases have been reported locally and noted that the virus, discovered 24 years ago, spreads moderately compared to other respiratory viruses.

Hossam Hosni, head of the Scientific Committee for Covid-19, highlighted that HMPV symptoms mimic the common cold but can be severe for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.

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Ministry spokesperson Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar emphasized the importance of special care for these vulnerable groups.

Uganda

Dr. Diana Atwine, Uganda’s Health Ministry Permanent Secretary, assured the public of the country’s readiness to handle contagious diseases amid rising HMPV cases in China.

She highlighted strengthened testing, surveillance, and healthcare capacity, with precautionary measures in place.

Dr. Atwine ruled out a lockdown but urged the public to stay informed and maintain good hygiene practices.

Zimbabwe

The government has promptly enhanced public health surveillance in response to the recent Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China.

In collaboration with key stakeholders, the Ministry of Health and Child Care held a high-level meeting in Harare to discuss preparedness and response strategies.

Deputy Minister Sleiman Timios Kwidini stated that intensified monitoring is being implemented at all points of entry, including airports and borders, to quickly identify and address any potential cases.

Morocco

Reports of a new respiratory virus, HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), in China have sparked concerns online, but Moroccan health experts have reassured the public there is no cause for alarm.

Dr. Moulay Said Afif, of Morocco’s COVID-19 vaccination scientific committee, stated that the Directorate of Epidemiology and vigilance committee have issued no warnings about HMPV, urging calm.

He emphasized the need to address severe flu cases, particularly in vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, recommending flu vaccinations to reduce symptom severity.

Botswana

The Ministry of Health clarified that, while HMPV has not been declared a public health concern by any international health organization, it is important to reassure the public amidst media reports that may cause unnecessary anxiety.

As a precautionary measure, the Ministry encourages the public to practice good hygiene, such as handwashing with soap and clean water, covering their mouth with their elbow when coughing, and optionally using masks in crowded areas, especially if experiencing flu-like symptoms.

The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation in China through global reporting channels and will keep the public informed of any developments.

Namibia

Ben Nangombe, Executive Director of Health and Social Services in Namibia, reassured the public that the country is monitoring the HMPV outbreak in China but urged calm.

He stated that at the moment, no travel restrictions have been issued, and the virus, which causes cold-like symptoms and can lead to pneumonia in vulnerable groups, has not been declared a national concern.

He added that the Ministry of Health will provide updates as needed.