BY NGOZI ONYEAKUSI

Following media enquiries about the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research’s (NIMR) preparedness, in view of recent “outbreak” of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, we wish to assure the general public that the Institute is fully prepared, as Nigeria’s foremost research agency, to fulfil its mandate, concerning the outbreak, if the need arises.

NIMR is in close contact and will be collaborating with relevant government agencies and institutions as the nation intensifies efforts to strengthen its preparedness for all health emergencies.

NIMR also aligns with the views and positions already expounded by the Nigeria Centre for Disease control (NCDC). We hereby enjoin the public to adhere to the public health advisory enunciated by the agency.

ABOUT NIMR
The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) is the country’s foremost medical research institute conducting research into various health problems in the country. The institute is also charged with the dissemination of health research results in the country through training courses, scientific publications, conferences, workshops and other communication channels, to the Federal and States Ministries of Health, relevant stakeholders in the Public and Private sectors as well as the general public.