Nigeria Records Decline in Mpox Cases, NCDC Reports

By: Emmanuel Ibitoye

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced a significant decrease in suspected and confirmed Mpox cases in the country over the past four weeks.

According to the NCDC’s latest data, 51 new suspected cases were reported between Epidemiological weeks 29 and 32 of 2024, marking a substantial drop from the 102 cases recorded in the previous four weeks (Epi weeks 25-28).

The cases were reported across 26 local government areas in 18 states, with only two confirmed positive cases, one each in Ebonyi and Enugu states. This represents a decrease from the seven confirmed cases recorded in the earlier period.

Mpox, an infectious viral disease, is characterized by symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that forms blisters. While the illness is usually mild, with most individuals recovering within a few weeks without treatment, the NCDC has emphasized the importance of vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines to curb its spread.

The NCDC has reported a cumulative total of 4,603 suspected cases and 1,125 confirmed cases (24.4%) across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory since the resurgence of Mpox in Nigeria in September 2017.

To prevent the spread of Mpox, the NCDC has advised the public to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, practice good hand hygiene, wear protective gear when caring for suspected or confirmed cases, and avoid contact with animals that may harbor the virus.

Healthcare providers have also been urged to be vigilant for patients presenting with Mpox symptoms, promptly isolate suspected cases, and notify relevant public health authorities immediately.