Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Oct 08, 2024 1 week, 12 hours, 9 minutes ago
Medical News: Rise in Confirmed Mpox Cases Amid Drop in Suspected Ones
Nigeria has recorded 54 new suspected cases of Mpox during Week 39 of 2024, showing a decline from the previous week’s 75 suspected cases. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) revealed this information in its most recent epidemiological report. However, despite the drop in suspected cases, six new confirmed Mpox cases were reported in the same period, up from three in the previous week. (Note that the NCDC does not differentiate between clade 1 and clade 2 mpox variants and simply classifies all as Mpox cases.)
Nigeria Reports 54 New Suspected Mpox Cases with Six Confirmed in a Week
This
Medical News freport will provide an overview of the current Mpox situation in Nigeria, focusing on the latest statistics and health recommendations.
Latest Figures from the NCDC
The NCDC reported that since the beginning of 2024, a total of 87 confirmed Mpox cases and 1,237 suspected cases have been documented in the country. While the number of confirmed cases has increased in recent weeks, the country has successfully maintained a low Case Fatality Rate (CFR), with zero deaths reported from confirmed Mpox cases in 2024 so far.
https://ncdc.gov.ng/data
As of Week 39, Mpox cases have been confirmed in 25 states across Nigeria, as well as in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These cases affect a total of 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Plateau, Delta, FCT, Katsina, and Imo states being the latest to report new cases in the past week.
https://ncdc.gov.ng/diseases/sitreps/?cat=8&name=An%20Update%20of%20Monkeypox%20Outbreak%20in%20Nigeria
Ongoing Efforts to Contain the Outbreak
Since the Mpox outbreak first began in Nigeria in September 2017, the country has reported 5,054 suspected cases and 1,170 confirmed cases. According to the NCDC, males between the ages of 21 and 45 make up the majority (68%) of the confirmed cases.
The National Mpox Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to play a key role in managing and coordinating the country’s response to the ongoing outbreak. The EOC is working closely with multiple sectors and international partners to reduce the spread of the virus, particularly in states where new cases are being confirmed.
Preventive Measures and Public Health Guidelines
The NCDC stresses the importance of adhering to preventive measures to stop the spread of Mpox. Individuals are advised to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of the disease, such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes. Maintaining good hand hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, is also crucial. Additionally, healthcare workers are encouraged to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling suspected or confi
rmed cases to avoid further transmission of the virus.
Healthcare providers in areas with confirmed cases are urged to remain vigilant and act promptly by isolating suspected cases. This swift action is essential in reducing the possibility of further outbreaks. In its continuous efforts, the NCDC is conducting public education campaigns, encouraging citizens to report symptoms early and to follow isolation guidelines if diagnosed with Mpox.
Citizens are encouraged to stay cautious, particularly in areas where the disease has been detected. The NCDC’s toll-free number (6232) is available for those seeking more information or to report suspected cases of Mpox.
What is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. While it shares similarities with smallpox, Mpox is generally less severe. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Mpox can be transmitted from animals to humans, as well as from person to person through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects.
The disease was renamed from monkeypox to Mpox in 2022 in an effort to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with its original name.
Transmission and Vulnerability
Recent research has shown that the primary mode of transmission for Mpox is close human contact. This can include physical touch, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated surfaces. One of the more concerning findings from the study is that vulnerable populations, such as those with compromised immune systems, are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms.
The research also highlights that while Mpox shares some similarities with smallpox, it tends to present with milder symptoms in most cases. However, severe cases can still occur, especially if individuals delay seeking medical attention. Early detection and isolation remain key strategies in containing outbreaks and preventing widespread transmission.
Public health experts recommend that people residing in affected areas avoid direct contact with animals, particularly those that may carry the virus, such as rodents and non-human primates. It is also essential to stay informed about the symptoms and report any suspected cases immediately.
Conclusion
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the Mpox outbreak, the coordinated efforts of the NCDC, healthcare workers, and citizens are crucial in curbing the spread of the virus. While the rise in confirmed cases is concerning, the country’s low fatality rate offers hope that timely intervention and preventive measures are working. Public awareness campaigns play a vital role in educating people about the disease and encouraging them to seek early treatment.
It’s also important to note that Mpox, while similar to smallpox, is generally less severe. However, vulnerable populations must remain cautious and vigilant. The NCDC is urging everyone to practice good hygiene, avoid contact with symptomatic individuals, and report any suspicious symptoms. By working together, the country can effectively control this outbreak and prevent further cases.
For the latest Mpox News, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/u-s-niaid-and-harvard-study-reveals-antibodies-from-jynneos-mpox-vaccine-wane-after-6-to-12-months
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/three-pakistanis-males-returning-from-saudia-arabia-test-positive-for-mpox-clade-2b
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/alarming-surge-of-mpox-clade-2b-cases-in-australia-with-724-new-infections-reported-between-july-to-september-2024
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