By: Abolade Oluwatobiloba
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed 39 cases of Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This development has prompted a heightened state of alert and intensified surveillance measures.
Nigeria has joined the growing list of countries affected by the Mpox outbreak, which the World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared a “public health emergency of international concern” due to its rapid spread across Africa.
According to NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, the cases have been reported in 33 states and the FCT, with Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and Ebonyi being the most affected.
To contain the outbreak, the NCDC is taking proactive measures, including:
– Intensifying surveillance
– Contact tracing
– Monitoring confirmed cases
– Considering vaccination for high-risk groups (with 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine received)
– Placing port health services on high alert
– Distributing diagnostic protocols to detect and respond to suspected cases promptly
While the situation is concerning, the NCDC assures the public that it is working tirelessly to prevent further spread and protect the health and well-being of Nigerians.