The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a public health advisory following reports of a Hantavirus cluster linked to international cruise ship travel.
The agency said there are currently no confirmed cases in Nigeria and maintained that the overall risk to the public remains low.
According to the NCDC, Hantaviruses are mainly carried by rodents and can spread to humans through contact with infected animals or exposure to their urine, droppings or saliva.
The agency also warned that infection may occur through inhaling contaminated dust in rodent infested areas.
It said symptoms often begin with fever, fatigue and muscle aches, but can progress to severe breathing difficulties, headaches and stomach related complications.
The NCDC said it is strengthening surveillance for emerging infectious diseases and closely monitoring the international situation.
The agency advised Nigerians to maintain clean surroundings, store food properly, dispose of waste correctly and practice regular hand hygiene to reduce the risk of rodent infestation.
It also urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources to avoid the spread of misinformation.
