Nigeria has reported at least 40 cases of mpox, prompting the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Jide Idris, to announce the expected arrival of 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine in September.
However, he emphasized that this quantity is grossly inadequate for a country with a population of over 200 million.
NAIJATRAFFIC LEARNT that , Dr. Idris explained that the available doses will be prioritized and distributed by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to vulnerable populations and high-risk groups, ensuring targeted protection against the viral infection.
“We don’t know exactly when the vaccine will arrive in Nigeria, but I think it may be next month (September). The NCDC doesn’t handle vaccines; it is the NPHCDA that manages vaccines,
“They are responsible for the distribution. We collaborate with them on the distribution pattern and the prioritisation of the vaccine,” he said.
He further emphasized that the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention was expecting approximately 10 million doses of the vaccine and might allocate two million doses to Nigeria if a request was made.
“I have discussed with the DG of NPHCDA about making that request. However, I’m not suggesting that the Africa CDC currently has the two million doses, as they are also applying for 10 million doses,” Idris noted.
He noted that the vaccine was intended for emergency use only and maintained that the 10,000 doses would not be sufficient for Nigeria’s needs given its population.
“Whatever is brought will not cover everyone. The NPHCDA will need to prioritise based on those most at risk.
“Priority will be given to those who are immunocompromised or have underlying conditions that make them more susceptible to mpox. The vaccine will be allocated to those who have not previously had mpox. We will focus on vulnerable populations and regions currently experiencing high rates of the disease,” he said.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has been working with state health commissioners to establish emergency preparedness committees in each state, emphasizing that all states must be prepared to respond to the mpox outbreak.
At a recent briefing in Abuja, Dr. Idris reported that Nigeria has recorded 40 confirmed cases of mpox out of 830 suspected cases, with no deaths.
He announced that the country will receive a donation of mpox vaccine doses from the US Government.
The NCDC has established an Emergency Operations Centre and Incident Management System since mpox was declared a public health emergency.
Dr. Idris outlined the NCDC’s ongoing efforts, including collaborating with state governments to strengthen their response capabilities, enhancing laboratory services through genomic sequencing, and expanding testing capabilities to include additional facilities.
He further emphasized that the vaccine’s efficacy is still under review.
“The vaccine is for emergency use only. We don’t have extensive data on its effectiveness as it is still undergoing testing. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has approved its use under emergency conditions. However, controlling the spread of mpox also depends on preventing contact with infected individuals.”
“We need to increase laboratory capabilities, particularly in the South-South and South-East regions,” Idris said.
He further emphasized the need for improved public awareness about mpox, including its symptoms and preventive measures.
“We are intensifying efforts to educate the public. There are some states where we have not yet collected data. Investigators will address these gaps,” he stated.
Experts have issued a warning that individuals with HIV are more vulnerable to severe mpox infections due to their weakened immune systems.
The rare viral disease, mpox, which is prevalent in several African countries, can also affect the genital area, making sexual contact a potential transmission route.
Professor Salim Karim, a leading researcher on AIDS, noted a significant increase in Clade I cases compared to 2022, indicating a more severe outbreak.
He emphasized that the current situation poses a greater health burden.
Additionally, Dr. Oladipo Kolawole, a medical virologist and immunologist, shared his expertise on the matter, providing further insights into the risks and implications of mpox infection, particularly for those living with HIV.
People living with HIV, especially those with untreated or poorly controlled HIV, are more susceptible to severe mpox due to their weakened immune systems.”
