In response to the monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak, the Federal Government has stepped up its surveillance and screening at all national entry points.
This action comes as the Africa Centre for Disease Control declared a public health emergency due to the escalating outbreak across the continent, notably in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A new viral strain, clade 1b, first identified in September 2023, has recently spread beyond DRC.
The World Health Organization highlighted concerns about this strain’s rapid transmission through sexual networks and its spread into neighboring countries, which contributed to the emergency declaration.
In 2024, Africa has reported approximately 2,863 confirmed Mpox cases and 517 deaths across 13 countries. Nigeria has recorded 39 cases with no fatalities across its 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Mpox, a rare zoonotic disease endemic to Central and West Africa, is transmitted from animals like rodents and monkeys to humans, and between humans via direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, and a distinctive rash that often starts on the face and spreads.
The Nigerian government has introduced new health measures, including mandatory online health declaration forms for travelers and the activation of infectious disease centers nationwide.
