What Nigeria can do to contain the spread of mpox virus: lessons from global incidents
摘要
Due to mpox virus outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and spread to other neighboring African countries as well as to parts of the globe, the World Health Organisation declared a Public health emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in August, for the second time in two years. Nigeria had also reported 935 suspected cases and 55 confirmed cases, as of September, 2024. This zoonotic illness, mpox, is contracted by contact with infected humans or animals and byproducts. Sexual means of transmission especially men having sex with men is also a major driver of global spread, as well as other sexual risks. The double-stranded DNA orthopoxvirus, commonly referred to as the mpox virus, is the causative agent. The current epidemiological situation of mpox in Nigeria is examined in this paper, with a focus on problems such as insufficient surveillance, limited diagnostic capacity, and socioeconomic factors that contribute to the disease’s spread. The analysis highlights the significance of vaccination, public education, and a strong healthcare system by drawing lessons from past outbreaks and international responses. Key recommendations include prioritizing immunization for high-risk populations and healthcare workers, implementing strict isolation measures, and fostering international collaboration for resource sharing. Implementing these measures as part of mitigation measures is expected to reduce transmission rates, protect high-risk populations, and build a robust healthcare response infrastructure. Additionally, the proposed strategies aim to foster sustainable international partnerships, ensuring resource accessibility and equitable vaccine distribution. By concentrating on these insights and suggestions, Nigeria will improve its readiness and response strategies, ultimately enhancing global health security in the face of newly developing infectious diseases.