The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has received 10,000 doses of the JYNNEOS® vaccine, a critical boost to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat Mpox.
This donation, provided by the United States government, represents more than just the acquisition of medical supplies; it underscores the strength of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges.
Executive director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina expressed deep appreciation for the vaccine donation during a handover ceremony in Abuja. He emphasised that the contribution reflects the strong partnership between Nigeria and the United States and their shared commitment to global health security.
“As Nigeria experienced a significant outbreak of Mpox in 2022, the recent resurgence of cases has highlighted the virus’s persistent threat,” Aina remarked. “The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern further emphasises the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures.”
JYNNEOS®, a third-generation vaccine, is licensed to prevent both smallpox and Mpox. It is recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP) for individuals at risk of exposure to orthopoxvirus infections, including Mpox. Since the 2022 Mpox outbreak, JYNNEOS® has been the primary vaccine used in the United States. It is based on the live, attenuated Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus, which does not replicate efficiently in humans. The vaccine, also known internationally as Imvamune® or Imvanex®, is fully licensed in the U.S. for use in adults aged 18 and older and became commercially available in the U.S. as of April 1, 2024.
Aina highlighted that the NPHCDA is committed to ensuring the equitable and efficient distribution of these vaccines to those at the highest risk. The agency’s strategy prioritises frontline workers, individuals with close contact with confirmed Mpox cases, and vulnerable populations.
“We plan to work closely with state and local health authorities to implement a targeted vaccination program that maximises the impact of these limited but crucial resources,” Aina stated. However, he stressed that vaccination is only one component of a comprehensive approach to combating Mpox.
The NPHCDA is also focused on strengthening surveillance systems in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Enhancing the ability to detect and respond rapidly to new cases is a key element of the agency’s strategy.
Public awareness is another critical aspect, Aina noted. The NPHCDA plans to intensify efforts to educate the public about Mpox, its symptoms, transmission routes, and preventive measures. He called for the full cooperation of the press—print, electronic, and new media—in empowering citizens with the knowledge needed to reduce the risk of transmission and promote early reporting of suspected cases.
Aina also urged all sectors of society, including healthcare providers, community leaders, NGOs, and citizens, to join in this crucial endeavour. “Through collective action and shared responsibility, we can create a robust defence against this virus and protect the health of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, has long been a public health challenge in Nigeria, with sporadic cases managed historically. However, the current outbreak has heightened the urgency of response efforts. The disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, is a zoonotic illness, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans and spread between humans through close contact.
