The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 39 confirmed cases of Mpox across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory since the beginning of 2024. Fortunately, no deaths have been recorded in connection with this rare viral zoonotic infectious disease.

Mpox, which is endemic in several African countries, including the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa, poses a significant public health challenge. The exact reservoir of the virus remains unknown, but rodents, squirrels, and monkeys are suspected to play a role in transmission. The virus can spread both from animals to humans and from human to human. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, weakness, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.

As the outbreak continues to affect multiple African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, efforts to manage its spread and prevent disease importation are crucial. The Africa Centre for Disease Control recently declared a public health emergency due to the growing Mpox outbreak on the continent.