NCDC intensifies surveillance for Hantavirus amid global concerns, no confirmed cases in Nigeria
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Jide Idris, announced that the agency has intensified disease surveillance across Nigeria. This action follows reports of an international Hantavirus cluster linked to cruise ship travel involving multiple countries. Dr. Idris reassured Nigerians that there are currently no confirmed cases of Hantavirus in the country and that the overall risk to the public remains low. The advisory was issued due to growing global concern and the need for vigilance against emerging infectious diseases. Hantaviruses are primarily spread through rodents, and human infection can occur through exposure to infected rodents, their excretions, or contaminated dust. Symptoms can include fever, gastrointestinal issues, and in severe cases, respiratory complications. The current cluster is linked to the Andes virus strain, which has shown limited human-to-human transmission through close contact. The NCDC has activated enhanced surveillance measures to prevent importation and ensure early detection. Nigerians are advised to maintain clean surroundings, prevent rodent infestation, store food properly, dispose of waste safely, avoid contact with rodents, and practice good hand hygiene. The NCDC continues to monitor global developments in emerging infectious diseases.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Adamu Atiku, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has announced his intention to run for the Adamawa South Senatorial District seat in the 2027 general elections under the African Democratic Congress. The former Adamawa State Commissioner for Works and Energy Development stated that his decision followed extensive consultations and encouragement from constituents and stakeholders. He noted that he had initially remained silent despite calls from supporters to focus on reflection and consultation. Adamu highlighted the overwhelming confidence placed in him and the demand for experienced and people-oriented representation. He confirmed obtaining his nomination form, signaling the formal start of his campaign for the Senate seat. He described his ambition as a people-driven movement focused on promoting unity, progress, and quality representation in the district. This declaration comes weeks after Adamu resigned from the cabinet of Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, following the governor's defection to the All Progressives Congress. This development further involves the Atiku political family in the ADC, following the former Vice President's move to the party.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, set to begin on Saturday, May 9th, and last through May 11th. Trump stated that he personally requested the truce, and both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to it. He expressed hope that this ceasefire could lead to a long-term resolution to the conflict. The truce is also intended to include a mutual exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each side. This announcement follows a period of continued fighting, with both Russia and Ukraine trading attacks on Friday before Trump's statement. Ukraine had previously dismissed a unilateral two-day ceasefire announced by Russia for its May 9th World War II Victory Day, viewing it as a propaganda measure. Ukraine also stated that Moscow had ignored its earlier proposal for a short-term ceasefire. Despite the declared ceasefire, President Zelenskyy noted that the intensity of assault operations had not decreased, and Ukraine was responding in kind. Russia reported downing over 400 Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine hailed a strike on an oil depot in Russia's Yaroslavl region and an air navigation center in Rostov-on-Don. President Putin convened a security council meeting, calling the strike an "act of a terrorist nature."
Intensified joint security operations in Katsina State have led to the killing of five suspected bandits and the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims. The state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, stated that these operations targeted Muhammad Fulani, a notorious bandit leader active in Matazu, Musawa, Kankia, Charanchi, and parts of Kano State. During these operations, security forces recovered an AK47 rifle, 10 magazines, and nine motorcycles. Among those eliminated was Samagi, an associate of bandit leader Muhammadu Kachalla. The rescued victims include 10 women, 9 men, and 13 children. The Katsina State Government, under Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reiterated its stance against negotiating with bandits, committing to their elimination. Operations against Muhammad Fulani are ongoing, with security forces continuing their pursuit across affected areas. Citizens are urged to provide intelligence to aid these efforts. Katsina is a major center of the banditry crisis in Nigeria's North-West, which has caused mass kidnappings, cattle rustling, and displacement, impacting agricultural activities.
Joke Silva, Head Judge for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, addressed concerns regarding the nomination process for the 2026 edition. Following the unveiling of the nominees list in March, which saw films like Gingerrr and The Herd receive nine nominations each, and To Kill A Monkey eight, some fans and actors expressed disappointment over omissions. Silva explained in an interview with Guardian Life that non-voting categories were reviewed by professionals with deep understanding of film, performance, and technical execution. She stated that award decisions can be subjective, with final nominations determined through a grading process by multiple judges. Silva admitted that even she was surprised by some projects not making the final cut despite their quality, attributing it to the aggregate of scores. Her comments come amid criticism, including actress Lilian Afegbai's public disappointment over her exclusion from the Best Supporting Actress category for her role in To Kill A Monkey. Silva defined an award-worthy performance as deeply embodying a character to the point of believability. Despite the debates, Silva expressed pride in the growth and quality of Nollywood productions, noting that the volume of strong projects submitted reflects the increasing standard of African film and television storytelling. This year's awards feature 32 categories, including 18 jury-voted, 11 audience-voted, and three special recognition awards, with new categories for Best Ind