Infectious disease specialists from the Nigerian Infectious Diseases Society (NIDS) have outlined a comprehensive strategy for Nigeria to tackle the Mpox threat. They emphasize the need for substantial financial investments in Mpox surveillance and response efforts across all levels of the healthcare system.
The experts expressed concern over the increasing incidence of both clade I and II Mpox outbreaks in Africa and stressed the importance of concurrently investing in other endemic and epidemic diseases to avoid their neglect during the Mpox response.
In a statement released by Prof. Dimie Ogoina, President of NIDS, titled “Nigerian Infectious Diseases Society (NIDS) Statement on the Current Mpox Outbreak in Nigeria and Africa: Observations, Concerns, and Recommendations,” the society highlighted the urgent need for a robust and sustainable One Health Mpox surveillance system in Nigeria. This system should focus on animal exposures, environmental risks, and behavioral factors.
NIDS also advocated for intensified surveillance at entry points to prevent new Mpox strains from entering the country and supported the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)’s initiative to decentralize Mpox laboratory testing to enhance efficiency and patient care. They urged the federal government to increase funding for the NCDC and recommended a review of Mpox case definitions to address new disease presentations and investigate the high rate of laboratory-negative results among clinically compatible cases.
The society called for improved risk communication and community engagement to combat misconceptions and stigma surrounding Mpox. They recommended a structured awareness program for various communities, including those targeted for preventive Mpox vaccination, such as frontline health workers.
NIDS also stressed the need for investments in Mpox research and development in Nigeria to better understand the disease and create innovative, cost-effective treatments, including repurposed drugs.
Health workers were advised to maintain a high level of vigilance and adhere strictly to infection prevention and control measures to prevent healthcare-associated infections. The public is encouraged to avoid spreading unverified information and to cooperate with health authorities by reporting suspected cases and following public health advisories.
NIDS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s public health response to Mpox through advocacy, research, education, and partnerships. They emphasized that addressing the Mpox challenge requires a collective and proactive effort to curb further transmission and spread of the virus, highlighting concerns over inadequate investments and gaps in understanding Mpox epidemiology in Nigeria.