The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) recently announced that 39 cases of Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox) have been recorded across 33 states and the federal capital territory (FCT) this year. The most affected states include Bayelsa and Cross River with 5 cases each, while Ogun and Lagos have recorded 4 cases each.

In response, NCDC Director-General Jide Idris highlighted that the national Mpox technical working group (TWG) is coordinating the country’s efforts to monitor and contain the spread of the disease. Health services across airports, seaports, and land borders are on high alert, and protocols have been established to identify and respond to suspected cases.

The NCDC is also considering vaccinations for high-risk groups and expects to receive 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine soon. In addition to ramping up surveillance, contact tracing efforts are underway to prevent further spread, with travelers who have visited countries experiencing Mpox outbreaks being asked to declare their travel history.

The NCDC has sent out alerts to public and private hospitals across Nigeria, listing referral isolation centers to manage confirmed cases.

In related health news, the NCDC also provided an update on the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nigeria, which has affected 36 states and the FCT. As of August 11, over 5,900 suspected cholera cases have been recorded, with 176 deaths reported. Children under five have been hit hardest by the outbreak.

As Nigeria faces these ongoing health challenges, the NCDC remains focused on strengthening its response and minimizing the impact of both Mpox and cholera on the population.