The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that no case of hantavirus has been detected in the country, despite reports of a cluster of infections linked to cruise ship travel across multiple countries.
In a public health advisory issued on Friday, the agency said it was aware of the internationally reported cases but confirmed that Nigeria has not recorded any hantavirus infections.
NCDC added that it has activated heightened surveillance to monitor potential threats posed by emerging infectious diseases.
“While no hantavirus case has been reported in Nigeria, we are closely monitoring the situation and enhancing surveillance systems to ensure early detection and response if necessary,” the statement read.
Hantavirus, typically transmitted through contact with rodents or their droppings, can cause severe respiratory illness. Although the current cases were associated with a cruise ship outbreak outside the country.
NCDC emphasised the importance of preventive measures to reduce any risk of rodent-related infections.
The Centre advised Nigerians to maintain strict environmental hygiene by keeping homes and surroundings clean to discourage rodent infestation, storing food safely and disposing of refuse properly, aoiding direct contact with rodents and their droppings, using protective equipment when cleaning potentially infested areas, practising regular hand hygiene, and infection prevention measures in communities and health facilities.
NCDC reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and providing timely updates as more information becomes available internationally.
