Fatshimetrie is the leading online news source for everything related to public health, and recently, news has shaken the world: Nigeria has become the first African country to receive vaccines against mpox. This announcement is a major breakthrough in the fight against this viral disease.
Credible information reports that Nigeria has received 10,000 doses of vaccines from the United States. Nigerian authorities have decided to target five states – Bayelsa, Edo, Cross-River, Lagos and Rivers – as a priority, which are most affected by mpox. This strategy aims to stem the spread of the disease in these regions.
The mpox epidemic has already spread to more than 10 of Nigeria’s 36 states, thus exposing a part of the population to a high risk of contamination. In this alarming context, receiving the vaccines represents a glimmer of hope to stem the spread of the virus.
The vaccine handover ceremony took place in Abuja on Tuesday, August 27, a week after the World Health Organization declared a global health emergency. Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Health Development Agency, stressed the importance of international cooperation in combating global health challenges.
The Jynneos vaccine (MVA) was donated by the US government to Nigeria, and its targeted distribution to the most affected areas is crucial to curb the outbreak. The Nigerian health authorities have developed a vaccination plan to ensure effective use of the vaccines and maximize their impact on public health.
While the Democratic Republic of Congo is the epicentre of the global mpox outbreak, the United States has also pledged to donate 50,000 doses to the country. The US envoy to Nigeria highlighted the relevance of the Nigerian government’s vaccination strategy, justifying the choice of Nigeria as the first recipient of the vaccines.
In conclusion, the arrival of MPOX vaccines in Nigeria marks a milestone in the fight against this viral disease. With effective international collaboration and adequate planning, Nigeria is now better equipped to protect its population and stem the spread of MPOX in the country.