The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 55 Mpox cases from 935 suspected cases across 21 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as of epidemiological week 35, ending September 1, 2024.
The announcement marks an increase in confirmed cases compared to the previous week.
In its latest report, the NCDC stated that no deaths have been recorded this year, and 70 per cent of the confirmed cases were among males, with females accounting for 30 per cent. The age distribution of cases varied, with 19 cases in children aged 0-10 and 12 cases in individuals aged 21-30.
Enugu recorded the highest number of confirmed cases with eight, followed by Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom, each with six cases. Other affected states include Cross River, Delta, Benue, Plateau, Osun and Lagos.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease similar to smallpox but less severe. It is characterised by fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes. The disease is transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or animals, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects.
The NCDC reassured the public that the National Mpox Emergency Operation Centre continues to coordinate the response to the outbreak in collaboration with state health authorities and international partners.
