Concerns are mounting among Nigerian citizens who are urging the Lagos State Ministry of Health to subject South African actress and AMVCA co-host Nomzamo Mbatha to mandatory health screening before she steps onto the red carpet, amid fears that the deadly hantavirus outbreak in South Africa could spread to Nigeria.
Mbatha, who is scheduled to co-host the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) alongside Nigerian comedian Bovi Ugboma on May 9, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos, has reportedly arrived in Nigeria. However, her entry has sparked widespread anxiety on social media following the confirmation of hantavirus cases in South Africa—including human-to-human transmission of the Andes strain.
At least three deaths have been linked to a recent outbreak aboard a cruise ship, with cases now confirmed within South Africa’s borders. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness and has a high fatality rate.
“The Lagos State Ministry of Health must double-check Nomzamo Mbatha immediately. We cannot afford another outbreak,” one concerned citizen posted on X. Others warned that postponing screening until after the event could expose thousands of attendees to unnecessary risk.
The AMVCA draws large crowds of celebrities, media, and fans from across Africa—making it a potential super-spreader event if proper screening protocols are not enforced.
As of now, no official screening directive has been issued by Nigerian health authorities. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has not yet announced enhanced port health screening for travellers arriving from South Africa.
“AMVCA must not become a channel for spreading this virus in Nigeria,” a Lagos baddy says. “We love our celebrities, but public health must come first.”
The call for screening highlights growing unease among Nigerians as the AMVCA approaches—a glamorous event now shadowed by the threat of an invisible but deadly virus.
