Nigeria Reports 39 Mpox Cases In Ogun, Lagos, Others

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 39 cases of Monkey Pox (mp‎ox) across several states, including Lagos, Ogun, and Bayelsa. NCDC Director-General Jide Idris announced the figures in Abuja on August 15, 2024, and called for urgent,  coordinated health responses.

Mpox, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization, has seen a troubling rise in cases globally. In Nigeria, the confirmed cases are primarily concentrated in Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos.

Idris reported that there had been no deaths from mpox in Nigeria so far. However, he highlighted the ongoing cholera outbreak, which has led to 5,951 suspected cases and 176 deaths as of August 11. The NCDC said it is enhancing surveillance and public awareness campaigns to combat these health threats.

The director-general also pointed out the rising issue of antimicrobial resistance, which contributes to over 64,500 deaths annually in Nigeria. To address these challenges, the NCDC is deploying rapid response teams, improving laboratory testing, and engaging communities in high-risk areas.

However, sustained efforts and collaboration across all sectors of society will be crucial in mitigating the impact of these diseases and safeguarding public health, the director-general said.

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