In a bid to combat the growing mpox outbreak, Nigeria is expected to receive a shipment of 10,000 vaccine doses in September.
While this number may seem modest compared to the country’s vast population, it’s a vital step towards protecting the most vulnerable individuals.
According to Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the vaccines will be distributed by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to high-risk groups, including those with compromised immune systems.
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As of now, Nigeria has reported 40 confirmed cases of mpox out of 830 suspected cases, with no fatalities recorded.
The NCDC is ramping up efforts to educate the public on the symptoms and prevention of mpox, as well as enhancing laboratory services to confirm cases more efficiently.
It’s a race against time, but with the vaccine rollout and increased awareness, there’s hope for a more effective response to the outbreak.
The NCDC’s efforts are a testament to the power of swift action and collaboration in the face of public health challenges.