The Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that 54 new suspected Mpox cases were recorded in Nigeria in week 39 of 2024, down from 75 cases reported the previous week.
In its latest epidemiological report published on its official website, the NCDC said the number of confirmed Mpox cases has increased, with six new cases confirmed in the 39th week compared to the previous week.
“According to cumulative figures for 2024, 84 confirmed cases and 1,237 suspected cases have been reported so far this year,” it said.
Despite the increase in confirmed cases, the country has maintained a low case fatality rate (CFR), with no deaths due to confirmed cases recorded in 2024, it said.
Public health officials noted that as of week 39, 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have reported confirmed cases of Mpox, with 57 local governments affected. New cases have been confirmed in Plateau, Delta, FCT, Katsina and Imo states in the past week.
“Since the outbreak began in September 2017, Nigeria has reported 5,054 suspected cases and 1,170 confirmed cases, with men accounting for 68% of confirmed cases, most of them aged 21 and above. 45 years old,” the report added.
The National MPOX Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to coordinate the outbreak response, working with multiple departments and partners to contain the spread of the infection, the report said.
NCDC explained the importance of preventive measures such as avoiding close contact with symptomatic people, maintaining good hand hygiene, and using protective equipment when caring for suspected patients.
The report said health care providers are urged to remain vigilant, especially in affected areas, and to promptly isolate suspected cases to prevent further infection.
The agency said it is also actively working on public education, encouraging the public to report symptoms early and follow isolation guidelines if diagnosed with MPOX.
“The public is advised to exercise caution, especially in states where cases have been reported. Citizens may contact the NCDC toll-free number 6232 for more information or if they suspect they have been infected. “You can report the incident to the authorities,” the authorities advised.
