In a significant development against mpox, Nigeria is the first African country to receive vaccines targeting the new mpox strain. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Nigeria received 10,000 doses of the Jynneos (MVA) vaccine, donated by the United States.
Nigeria is grappling with a rising number of mpox cases, now confirmed in over 10 of the country’s 36 states. In response, the government is prioritizing vaccine distribution to the five states most affected: Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Lagos, and Rivers.
“We are pleased to receive this modest initial donation of the mpox vaccine, which is safe and efficacious,” said Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, during a ceremonial signing in Abuja on Tuesday, August 27. “We will continue to strengthen surveillance and be vigilant to prevent and control mpox.”
The vaccine handover came just one week after WHO declared the rise of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, a global health emergency. The re-emergence and spread of the virus have prompted urgent global efforts to curb its impact, particularly in regions with limited access to vaccines and healthcare infrastructure.
Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, emphasized the significance of the vaccine delivery, stating, “Today’s handover ceremony symbolizes more than a transfer of vaccines; it exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges and local health challenges.” He also highlighted the scarcity of the vaccine worldwide, noting, “We’re aware that this vaccine is not exactly in surplus supply. I believe we are getting 10,000 of the about 200,000 doses that are available globally.”
Nigeria leads the continent in receiving these crucial vaccines. The country’s health authorities are ready to deploy the doses in targeted areas to curb the virus and protect vulnerable populations. This initiative is a key step in global efforts to control mpox and highlights the importance of international collaboration in combating public health threats.
