NOA commences awareness campaign against HMPV in Akwa Ibom

The National Orientation Agency has launched an awareness campaign against Human Metapneumovirus in Akwa Ibom State.
HMPV is a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
The state Director of the Agency, Mr. Mkpoutom Mkpoutom in a statement in Uyo on Wednesday listed the symptoms to include cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, shortness of breath, and wheezing in severe cases.
In children: potential for bronchiolitis or pneumonia
“In adults, the symptoms can exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma to mention but a few, ” it is spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing as well as direct contact with contaminated surfaces. ”
He identified those at risk as children under 5 years old, elderly individuals, especially those with underlying health conditions as well as Immunocompromised patients.
“We wish to use this medium in line with our mandate to advise citizens to use nose masks always especially in crowded places, airport premises, practising good hand hygiene, avoid close contact with sick persons, ensuring vaccinations for other preventable respiratory diseases like influenza and COVID19.
“However, there is no known cure for HMPV. Let us observe the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control protocol as directed recently.
“While the NOA will continue to create the necessary awareness in all the Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom state rural communities,” the statement said.