Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ The number of mpox cases in Nigeria has reached 48, with the virus now detected in Abuja and 20 other states, as reported by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Despite the rising number of cases, there have been no deaths reported in the country so far.
In response to the outbreak, Nigeria received 10,000 vaccine doses from the United States on August 27. These vaccines are part of efforts to curb the spread of the virus across the country. Additionally, a health declaration form for international travelers has been introduced to prevent further transmission.
The African Union has declared a public health emergency due to the rapid spread of mpox across the continent, highlighting the urgency of containing the virus.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease related to smallpox, but it typically causes milder symptoms. The virus can spread through contact with infected rodents, individuals, or contaminated objects. Symptoms usually develop between 5 to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and skin lesions. In more severe cases, painful sores and blisters can appear on the face, chest, hands, and genitals. The primary mode of transmission is close skin-to-skin contact.
While there is no specific treatment for mpox, antiviral drugs can help manage the disease, and most cases are mild, with recovery expected within a few weeks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 230,000 vaccine doses could soon be sent to Congo and other affected areas as part of a broader effort to control the outbreak. WHO is also launching educational campaigns to raise awareness about preventing the spread of mpox in outbreak regions.
Maria Van Kerkhove, head of WHO’s epidemic and pandemic diseases department, emphasized the need to expedite vaccine access for affected countries, given the limited supply. She also noted the importance of gaining a better understanding of mpox transmission in Africa to optimize vaccine use.
Earlier this week, the head of Africa’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that the continent expects to receive about 380,000 mpox vaccine doses from donors, including the U.S. and the European Union. However, this amount is less than 15% of the doses needed to control the outbreaks in Congo, according to health authorities.
The rising number of mpox cases in Nigeria and across Africa has prompted swift responses from national and international health organizations. With vaccines now being distributed and public health measures in place, efforts to contain the virus are gaining momentum. However, the need for more vaccines and a deeper understanding of mpox transmission remains critical to effectively managing the outbreak and preventing further spread.
