Nigeria Records 39 Mpox Cases, 5,951 Cholera Cases as Public Health Concerns Rise

Must Read

Nigeria has seen an increase in the number of Mpox cases, with 39 reported across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) since the start of 2024 according to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) Report. It is a relief that there have been no deaths from Mpox so far.

This information was shared by Dr. Jide Idris, the NCDC Director General, at a press conference held in Abuja. He also said that as of 11th August, 2024, Nigeria has had 5,951 suspected cholera cases with 176 deaths recorded across FCT and thirty-six other Nigerian states.

The Africa Centre for Disease Control recently declared a public health emergency due to the rising Mpox outbreak on the continent, with DRC being particularly affected.

NCDC is strengthening its surveillance to prevent both Mpox and cholera transmission especially at borders of Nigeria where airports and seaports are part of their focal areas including contemplating immunization campaigns among priority groups considering potential arrival of about ten thousand doses of Jynneos vaccine into Nigeria soon.

In response to the cholera outbreak, the NCDC is addressing those factors that contribute like open defecation and contaminated water sources through enhanced preventative measures and case management strategies.