In response to the escalating mpox outbreak in Africa, the Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified monitoring and screening procedures at all entry points to prevent the spread of the disease.
The move comes after the Africa Centre for Disease Control declared a public health emergency due to the growing outbreak.
As of yesterday, Nigeria has recorded 39 confirmed mpox cases across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with no reported deaths.
However, the global situation is dire, with 2,863 confirmed cases and 517 deaths reported across 13 African countries this year alone.
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The mpox virus, a rare and infectious disease endemic in several African countries, can spread from animal to human and human to human through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, skin lesions, or contaminated materials.
Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, weakness, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.
To combat the outbreak, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the Nigeria Ports Health Services have implemented measures similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These include requiring travelers to complete an online health declaration form before departing for Nigeria and activating infectious disease centers in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The public is advised to practice good hygiene, frequent hand washing, and use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after contact with an infected person or animal.
The government’s swift response aims to mitigate the impact of the mpox outbreak and protect the health and well-being of Nigerians.
