In Nigeria and throughout Africa as of 2024, Mpox is spreading. Nigeria reported 935 suspected Mpox cases between the first and the 35th epidemiological week, of which 55 were confirmed. These infections affected 21 states and 39 local government areas. A notable 0.0% Case Fatality Rate (CFR) was demonstrated by the fact that no deaths were reported. 2023 saw two deaths (2.0% CFR), 1,182 suspected cases, and 98 confirmed cases. Swollen lymph nodes, rash, and fever are some of the symptoms of Mpox, which is caused by the monkeypox virus.
The most impacted children in Nigeria are those under five. Animals that are infected or contaminated materials can also transmit the disease to humans through close contact, including sexual and skin-to-skin contact. Though the number varies on a weekly basis, more suspicious instances keep coming up. Opponents of the outbreak’s potential significance for Public Health have sparked a debate about whether or not a global health emergency should be proclaimed for Mpox. 10,000 Jynneos vaccination shots were supplied by the United States to Nigeria to curb the spread.
Overall number of suspected patients had dropped somewhat to 935.
As a result, the vaccination will help contain the outbreak. Fourteen African nations have contracted Mpox, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reporting the greatest number of cases and fatalities. When comparing the Mpox outbreak in Nigeria in 2023 and 2024, the data reveals both continued difficulties and advancements. Nigeria had a case fatality rate (CFR) of 2.0% in 2023 after 1,182 suspected cases of the virus, 98 confirmed cases, and two fatalities. By week 35 of 2024, there were only 55 verified instances out of the total suspected cases, and no deaths had been reported. The overall number of suspected patients had dropped somewhat to 935.
With the mortality rate showing a decline of 0.0% CFR, this indicates a noteworthy improvement. The outbreak remains a public health concern in Nigeria despite these encouraging developments, as seen by the high number of probable cases. To stop outbreak from spreading, the Nigerian government has taken a number of actions. The Jynneos vaccine, which is licensed by the FDA to protect against smallpox and Mpox in populations that are susceptible, was shipped to Nigeria in quantities of 10,000 doses on August 27, 2024.
Nigerian government has launched public health initiatives.
More so, in order to increase public awareness of the virus, its symptoms, and preventive measures, the Nigerian government has also launched public health initiatives. These programs have focused on the most vulnerable populations, such as children under five. Additionally, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) keeps track of instances, reports them, and assists local governments nationwide in containing epidemics. The question of whether to declare a global public health emergency due to the virus has been discussed by experts.
Others maintain that Mpox has not demonstrated the degree of severity or fatality required to justify this classification, despite the fact that some claim the virus’s spread, particularly in areas like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), fits the requirements for such a proclamation. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines an incident as “serious, sudden, unusual, or unexpected,” and the outbreak does not seem to fit this description, according to a coalition of Civil Society organizations in Nigeria who have questioned the designation.
Related Article: Mpox Cases Reduces Over Four Weeks in Nigeria
Even while the virus is prevalent, compared to past global health crises, its mortality rate is quite low while under management. Refusing to come into close touch with animals, people, or contaminated objects is the main strategy for preventing the spread of the virus. Shared personal things such as clothing or bedding should be avoided, and people should wash their hands frequently to maintain proper hygiene. In addition to encouraging immunization for high-risk populations, public health officials advise the use of protective gear, particularly for healthcare personnel. Another important strategy to stop the spread of the disease is to educate people about how to spot early symptoms like fever and rash and how to get medical attention quickly.