NCDC: No Hantavirus Cases Recorded in Nigeria

ABUJA — The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has assured Nigerians that there are no confirmed cases of Hantavirus in the country. The agency issued a public health advisory on May 9 after global reports of Hantavirus infections linked to an international cruise ship raised concern.

NCDC said the overall risk to the Nigerian public remains low. The agency confirmed it has activated enhanced surveillance at ports of entry and is monitoring incoming travelers as a precautionary measure.

The global Hantavirus concern began after reports of infections connected to the cruise ship MV Hondius emerged from multiple countries. The ship had traveled through parts of South America to the South Atlantic. Three deaths were reported and new suspected cases surfaced in Spain and Tristan da Cunha island.

In its advisory, the NCDC stated: “At this time, there is NO confirmed case of Hantavirus in Nigeria, and the overall risk to the public remains low.” The agency said it would continue to provide timely updates as the situation develops.

Hantavirus is a disease primarily carried by rodents. Humans can become infected through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected animals. The virus does not spread easily from person to person, which health officials say is important context amid public concern.

The NCDC urged Nigerians to maintain clean environments, store food properly, and avoid contact with rodents or their droppings. The agency also advised against spreading unverified information about the virus.

Nigeria already has experience managing rodent-borne diseases. The country faces regular outbreaks of Lassa fever, which is also spread through contact with infected rodents. The NCDC said similar prevention methods apply to both diseases.

Dr Jide Idris, a public health expert, said the NCDC’s response has been appropriate. “The advisory was timely and clear. The public should follow the guidance and not panic. Nigeria’s surveillance systems are active and will detect any change in the situation,” Idris said.

The NCDC said it will continue to work with the World Health Organization and Nigeria’s state health ministries to ensure the country is protected against any emerging infectious disease threats.