NCDC says there is no evidence of hantavirus cases in Nigeria despite recent global concerns over the rare rodent-borne disease.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reassured Nigerians that there is currently no confirmed case of hantavirus infection in the country amid growing global concerns over recent outbreaks reported outside Africa.
The public health agency stated that Nigeria’s disease surveillance system has not detected any case linked to the virus, urging citizens to remain calm while continuing to observe proper hygiene and environmental sanitation practices.
Hantavirus recently gained international attention following reports by the World Health Organization of infections linked to a cruise ship outbreak involving several countries. Health authorities said the disease is primarily transmitted through contact with rodents or their droppings, urine, and saliva.
According to the NCDC, Nigeria remains vigilant through its routine surveillance and monitoring systems designed to quickly detect and respond to infectious diseases of public health importance. The agency also encouraged Nigerians to maintain clean surroundings, avoid exposure to rodents, and report unusual illness symptoms to health authorities.
Medical experts explain that hantavirus is a rare viral disease that can cause severe respiratory complications in humans. While outbreaks have been recorded in parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas, there is no evidence suggesting active transmission within Nigeria at this time.
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The NCDC further advised the public to rely on verified information from official health agencies and avoid spreading panic or misinformation on social media.
