The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed 67 cases of Mpox (known as monkeypox) across 23 states as of Wednesday.
This outbreak highlights ongoing health concerns in Nigeria, despite efforts to curb the spread of the disease. According to the NCDC’s latest update, most cases are reported in states like Lagos, Rivers, and Bayelsa, which have historically been hotspots for Mpox. Fortunately, no new deaths have been recorded in recent weeks, but the NCDC continues to urge vigilance and early reporting of suspected cases.
The following states have confirmed cases: Akwa-Ibom (eight); Enugu (eight); Bayelsa (six); Cross River (five); Benue (four); Plateau (four); Delta (four); FCT (three); Imo (three); Lagos (three); Rivers (two); Abia (two); Osun (two); Anambra (two); Ogun (two).
Some of the others are Gombe (One), Edo (One), Kaduna (One), Nasarawa (One), Kebbi (One), Niger (One), Ebonyi (One), and Oyo (One).
What do you need to know?
Mpox is a disease transmitted from animals to humans. The virus is related to the smallpox virus, although Mpox is less severe in terms of mortality and transmission.
The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that Mpox is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected animals, humans, or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and in severe cases, respiratory complications. The disease can be particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, older people, and children.
The NCDC’s report noted that although the disease remains relatively contained, the spread to 23 states highlights the need for sustained public health interventions. In response, the NCDC has ramped up public awareness campaigns, urging Nigerians to practice proper hygiene, avoid contact with wild animals, and seek medical attention if symptoms appear.
The centre has also provided guidelines for healthcare professionals to manage and report cases effectively, including isolating infected individuals and providing supportive care.
“We have laboratories across the country, but not all of them have the same capabilities to test Mpox. So, we are optimising our laboratories to detect so that we don’t have to carry samples across states. We are also involved in awareness creation.”, the Director General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris stated.
While the current Mpox outbreak in Nigeria is concerning, the NCDC’s prompt response and ongoing public health measures show promise in containing the virus.
