The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported an alarming increase in Mpox cases across the country, with males constituting the majority of infections. The disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, poses a significant threat to both humans and animals, especially given its zoonotic nature.
Dr. David Oludare Omoniwa of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, Surgery, and Radiology, University of Jos, emphasized the importance of vaccination in controlling Mpox. Drawing parallels with the eradication of smallpox, he noted: “The future of Mpox control depends on safe vaccines. Communities at risk, especially those encroaching on wildlife habitats or consuming bush meat, should be targeted for immunization and education.”
The NCDC revealed on its website that 67% of Mpox cases recorded in January 2024 were in males. Since its re-emergence in Nigeria in September 2017, approximately 70% of the 6,001 suspected and confirmed cases have been among men. Despite the increase in cases, the NCDC confirmed that there have been no fatalities from Mpox so far in 2024, marking an improvement compared to 2022 and 2023, which saw two and seven deaths, respectively.
The NCDC highlighted the vulnerability of children, noting that out of 64 confirmed cases this year, children under the age of five accounted for the highest number, with 15 confirmed infections.
Mpox manifests through symptoms such as a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. The virus spreads through close contact with infected animals, human-to-human transmission via respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated objects. The NCDC has particularly warned against consuming certain animals known to be reservoirs of the virus, like rodents and monkeys.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a global public health emergency and approved the MVB-BN vaccine to curb the virus’s spread. However, vaccination challenges remain, as Felix Jighjigh, a veterinary medicine student, explained: “The MVB-BN (Modified Vaccinia Ankara Bavarian Nordic) is effective in boosting immunity but is contraindicated for immunosuppressed individuals and pregnant women due to potential adverse effects.”
Chibuike Joseph, a veterinary medicine student of the University of Jos, emphasized the importance of preventive measures. He also urged consistent hand washing, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining physical distance from infected individuals.
Mazawaje Matilda Asibi, another veterinary medicine student at the University of Jos, underscored the need for awareness campaigns. “Mpox is a notifiable disease, but many people are unaware of it. Enlightenment through billboards, school visits, and other media is crucial. Free vaccinations and better biosecurity practices, like regular disinfection and proper cooking of meat, are vital in reducing spread,” she said.
Christopher Priscilla, a veterinary medicine student of the University of Jos, detailed the disease’s clinical manifestations, which include rashes, blistering, loss of appetite, and swollen lymph nodes. “Early detection and reporting are essential to prevent outbreaks,” she emphasized.
The absence of fatalities in 2024 offers hope that increased awareness, preventive measures, and vaccination efforts could help combat Mpox effectively. Authorities continue to urge vigilance, biosecurity, and hygiene to mitigate the disease’s impact.
Report by Kabiru Isah (Veterinary medicine correspondent)
Edited by Israel Fakwagh Ciboh
