The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced on Thursday that the country has recorded 39 confirmed cases of mpox and zero deaths across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory since the beginning of 2024. The announcement was made by NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, during a press conference in Abuja.

Dr. Idris also provided an update on the ongoing cholera outbreak, revealing that Nigeria has recorded 5,951 suspected cholera cases and 176 deaths across all 36 states and the FCT as of August 11, 2024.

The rise in mpox cases comes in the wake of the Africa Centre for Disease Control’s declaration of a public health emergency due to the increasing number of mpox cases across the continent. The outbreak has particularly affected several African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a new viral strain first emerged in September 2023 and has now spread to other countries.

“In Nigeria, a total of 39 confirmed mpox cases and zero deaths have been recorded across 33 States and the FCT since the beginning of 2024. The states with the highest number of cases include Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, and Ebonyi,” Dr. Idris said.

Mpox, a rare viral zoonotic disease, can spread from animals to humans and between humans. The disease is endemic in several African countries, including those in Central and West Africa. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, weakness, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that typically starts on the face before spreading to other parts of the body.

Dr. Idris noted that the NCDC has intensified surveillance across Nigeria to swiftly detect and respond to new mpox cases. He mentioned that all port health services at international airports, seaports, and land borders are on high alert, with diagnostic protocols distributed to these locations. Additionally, contact tracing and monitoring efforts are underway to prevent further spread of the virus.

The NCDC is also considering vaccination efforts for high-risk groups, with Nigeria expecting to receive 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine in the near future.

Addressing the cholera outbreak, Dr. Idris highlighted the concerning rise in cases across the country, noting that the most affected age groups are children under five years old. He emphasized the need for enhanced prevention strategies and case management measures, especially given the anticipated increase in cholera cases due to ongoing rainfall and poor sanitation practices, such as open defecation.

“The trend of suspected cholera cases is expected to fluctuate and may persist until Epidemic Week 37. The current rainfall forecasts suggest that there may be an increase in the number of cases,” Dr. Idris warned.

The NCDC’s efforts to curb the cholera outbreak will focus on improving water sanitation and hygiene practices, as well as providing timely medical care to affected individuals.