Victoria Mgbanwa
51 new suspected cases of Mpox were reported between Epidemiological weeks 29 to 32 of 2024, a significant drop from the 102 cases reported during the previous four weeks (Epi Weeks 25–28).
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a decline in Mpox cases in the country over the past four weeks.
According to the agency’s latest data, the 51 new suspected cases were recorded across 26 local government areas in 18 states.
The NCDC outlined the case definitions for suspected Mpox cases, which include acute illness with fever, intense headache, lymphadenopathy, back pain, and myalgia, followed by a progressively developing rash.
“Since the resurgence of Mpox in Nigeria in September 2017, the country has seen a cumulative total of 4,603 suspected cases, with 1,125 confirmed cases (24.4%) across 35 states and the FCT.
“The disease has disproportionately affected males, who account for approximately 70% of confirmed cases. Seventeen deaths have been recorded since 2017.”
The agency in a press statement advised all health workers to take precautions while treating patients affected with Mpox disease, including practicing good hand hygiene.
” Other measures include wearing protective gear, avoiding contact with animals that may harbor the virus, and ensuring meat is thoroughly cooked before consumption.”
The NCDC also emphasized the importance of promptly isolating suspected cases, notifying public health authorities immediately, and educating patients on early symptom reporting and adherence to isolation guidelines.