The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, recently declared the upsurge of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and several African countries as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This declaration, based on the advice of an International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee, signals the urgent need for a coordinated global response to curb the spread of this disease. For Nigeria, this declaration holds significant implications, both in terms of immediate health risks and long-term public health strategies.
Mpox, caused by the Orthopoxvirus, has been endemic in several African countries, including Nigeria, for decades. However, the recent emergence of a new clade of the virus, clade 1b, and its rapid spread in the DRC and neighboring countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, have raised alarm. Nigeria, with its history of mpox outbreaks and geographical proximity to the DRC, is at heightened risk. The declaration of mpox as a PHEIC underscores the need for Nigeria to bolster its surveillance, preparedness, and response mechanisms to prevent a potential outbreak within its borders.
Immediate Implications for Nigeria
Enhanced Surveillance and Rapid Response: The PHEIC declaration necessitates an immediate scale-up of surveillance activities across Nigeria. Given the increasing number of mpox cases in neighboring countries, Nigeria must strengthen its border health measures, ensuring that any suspected cases are quickly identified, isolated, and treated. Enhanced laboratory capacity for mpox testing is crucial to accurately detect and track the virus’s spread.
Vaccine Access and Deployment: WHO has triggered the Emergency Use Listing process for mpox vaccines, which will accelerate vaccine access for low-income countries. For Nigeria, this presents an opportunity to procure vaccines and begin targeted immunization campaigns, particularly in high-risk areas. Swift vaccination efforts could prevent large-scale outbreaks and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.
Public Awareness and Education: With the virus spreading through different modes of transmission, including sexual contact, there is a pressing need for public awareness campaigns. Educating the public about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention of mpox will be vital in controlling its spread. Special attention should be given to dispelling myths and reducing stigma associated with the disease.
Long-Term Public Health Considerations
Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: The mpox PHEIC highlights the broader need for Nigeria to invest in its healthcare infrastructure. This includes improving access to healthcare in remote areas, ensuring adequate medical supplies, and training healthcare workers to manage emerging infectious diseases. Strengthening the healthcare system will not only help in managing mpox but also enhance Nigeria’s overall resilience to future health crises.
Regional Collaboration: Nigeria should collaborate closely with other African countries and international organizations like WHO to share information, resources, and strategies. By working together, African nations can present a unified front against mpox and other emerging infectious diseases.
In conclusion, the WHO’s declaration of mpox as a PHEIC is a wake-up call for Nigeria to take decisive action. By enhancing surveillance, securing vaccines, and educating the public, Nigeria can mitigate the risks posed by this outbreak and protect the health and well-being of its citizens. The declaration also underscores the importance of long-term investments in healthcare infrastructure and regional cooperation to ensure sustained progress in public health.
