The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has observed a notable decrease in suspected and confirmed Mpox cases in Nigeria over the past month, according to the agency’s latest data released on Monday.
Mpox, an infectious viral disease affecting both humans and animals, presents symptoms such as a blistering rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While the illness is typically mild, most individuals recover without medical intervention within a few weeks.
The NCDC’s report indicated that 51 new suspected Mpox cases were recorded between Epidemiological (Epi) Weeks 29 to 32 in 2024, marking a significant decline from the 102 cases reported in the previous four-week period (Epi Weeks 25 to 28). These cases were distributed across 26 local government areas in 18 states.
The agency confirmed that of the new suspected cases, only two were positive, with one case each in Ebonyi and Enugu states. This is a marked reduction from the seven confirmed cases documented during the earlier period.
Outlining the disease’s progression, the NCDC described Mpox symptoms starting with a fever of at least 38.3°C, intense headache, lymphadenopathy, back pain, and muscle aches, followed by a rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body.
Since the resurgence of Mpox in Nigeria in September 2017, the country has reported a cumulative total of 4,603 suspected cases, with 1,125 confirmed (24.4%), across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The disease has disproportionately affected males, who account for approximately 70% of confirmed cases, with 17 deaths recorded since 2017.
The NCDC emphasized the importance of preventing the spread of Mpox by avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, particularly those with rashes or skin lesions. They also advised the public to maintain good hand hygiene, wear protective gear when caring for suspected cases, and avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus.
Healthcare providers are urged to be vigilant, promptly isolating suspected cases and notifying public health authorities immediately. The NCDC’s National Mpox Technical Working Group continues to monitor and respond to the outbreak nationwide.
As the NCDC works to curb the spread of Mpox, the agency calls on Nigerians to remain vigilant and adhere to public health guidelines, particularly in states where cases have been reported.
