Nigeria has recorded a decline in Mpox cases, with three confirmed cases reported in week 38, between September 16 and 22.
The number of cases recorded reflected a slight drop from the eight cases reported the previous week.
The Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) made this known in its latest situation reports (September 16 to 22) published on its website on Monday.
Although there were no deaths, the NCDC said it is essential to note that Mpox remains a concern, particularly as 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) recorded at least one confirmed case in 54 local government areas this year.
Mpox outbreak in Nigeria
Mpox is an acute illness that usually begins with fever, severe headache, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle pain, and extreme fatigue.
This is followed by a distinctive rash that often begins on the face and progressively spreads to other parts of the body, sometimes appearing on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands.
According to the report, since September 2017, Nigeria has reported a cumulative total of 4,997 suspected cases and 1,164 laboratory-confirmed cases, representing a confirmation rate of 23.3 percent.
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He stated that the outbreak has caused 17 deaths.
Geographically, the disease has spread widely across the country, affecting all 36 states and FCT, indicating widespread distribution.
Response activities
The NCDC noted that it is actively coordinating the response to the Mpox outbreak through its national Mpox multi-sector, multi-partner Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
This collaborative effort involves multiple stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive approach.
It added that the response encompasses surveillance and reporting of suspected and confirmed cases across the country, providing guidance and support for case management, conducting public awareness campaigns and collaborating with state governments, health agencies and partners.
To report suspected cases, he advised the public to contact the NCDC through its toll-free number, adding that by leveraging its expertise and resources, it aims to reduce the spread of Mpox and protect the health of Nigerians.