By Lucy Adautin
Nigeria has made history as the first African nation to secure mpox vaccines. The country received 10,000 vaccine doses from the United States.
Nigerian officials have focused on five states—Bayelsa, Edo, Cross-River, Lagos, and Rivers—that are experiencing the highest rates of mpox cases. More than 10 of Nigeria’s 36 states have confirmed mpox cases.
The formal signing in Abuja recently, took place just one week after the World Health Organization declared a global health emergency.
“Today’s handover ceremony symbolizes more than a transfer of vaccines, it exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges and local health challenges,” Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency said.
“We’re aware that this vaccine is not exactly in surplus supply. I believe we are getting 10,000 of the about 200,000 doses that are available globally.”
The United States government has provided Nigeria with doses of the Jynneos (MVA) vaccine.
Receiving the mpox vaccine can be an effective way to prevent infection, especially for those considered high-risk.
The global outbreak’s epicenter is the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the US has committed to donating 50,000 doses.
The US envoy to Nigeria offered an explanation for why Nigeria was prioritized for the first shipment.
“Nigeria government has put together a vaccination plan. There is a plan on how to use these vaccines effectively, how to make sure we get the most effect out of this 10,000 vaccine donation. So that’s very much why Nigeria was chosen to receive this first batch. We will continue to work with Nigeria on efforts to stop the spread of the monkeypox illness.”
The World Health Organization reports that most individuals with mpox typically recover within 2-4 weeks.
The primary focus of mpox treatment is to care for the rash, alleviate pain, and avoid any potential complications.
