Mpox Cases Surge In Nigeria, With 54 New Suspected Cases In Week 39

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a total of 54 new suspected Mpox cases in Nigeria during Week 39 of 2024, a decrease from the 75 cases reported in the previous week. 

This information was detailed in the latest epidemiological report published on the agency’s official website.

According to the NCDC, the number of confirmed Mpox cases also increased, with six new confirmations in Week 39 compared to three the week prior. Cumulatively, the figures for 2024 indicate that there have been 84 confirmed cases and 1,237 suspected cases reported so far this year. 

Despite the increase in confirmed cases, Nigeria has maintained a low case fatality rate (CFR), with no deaths recorded among confirmed cases in 2024. The public health agency reported that as of Week 39, 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have documented confirmed cases of Mpox, affecting 57 local government areas. Notably, Plateau, Delta, FCT, Katsina and Imo states confirmed new cases in the past week.

Since the outbreak began in September 2017, Nigeria has reported a total of 5,054 suspected cases and 1,170 confirmed cases. Males account for 68 per cent of these confirmed cases, primarily within the age range of 21 to 45.

The National Mpox Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) continues to coordinate the response to the outbreak, collaborating with various sectors and partners to contain the spread of the disease. The NCDC emphasises the importance of preventive measures, including avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, maintaining good hand hygiene and using protective gear when caring for suspected cases.

Healthcare providers have been urged to remain vigilant, especially in areas affected by the outbreak, and to isolate suspected cases promptly to prevent further transmission. The agency is also actively engaged in public education, encouraging citizens to report symptoms early and adhere to isolation guidelines if diagnosed with Mpox.

Citizens are advised to exercise caution, particularly in states where cases have been reported. The public can contact the NCDC’s toll-free number (6232) for more information or to report suspected cases.

Science Nigeria reports that Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It shares similarities with smallpox, although it is generally less severe. Mpox is characterised by symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can spread from animals to humans and between humans through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and other health bodies renamed monkeypox to “mpox” in 2022 to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with the original name.