The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized that the country has intensified monitoring and screening procedures at all entry points in response to the threat of Monkey Pox, Clade 1.
Monkey Pox, caused by a highly contagious and deadly virus, has been wreaking havoc in various regions of Africa. This led the World Health Organization to classify it as a Global Health Emergency, necessitating prompt and coordinated international efforts to contain its spread and minimize its impact.
The Minister made this announcement on Thursday, highlighting that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and The Nigeria Ports Health Services, operating under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, had been enhancing Nigeria’s defenses even before the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention declared Monkey Pox a public health emergency.
This specific strain of Monkey Pox, Clade 1, has resulted in fatalities in up to 10% of those affected in previous outbreaks. He also mentioned that the objective is to address and mitigate its consequences by implementing measures akin to those utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Pate further elaborated that the government had introduced a new regulation mandating all travelers to complete an online health declaration form prior to their departure for the country. This initiative is being rolled out alongside the establishment of infectious disease facilities in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Minister also advised the public to adhere to good hygiene practices, including regular hand washing with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after coming into contact with an infected individual or animal.
Monkey Pox is transmitted through close interactions, such as sexual contact, skin-to-skin contact, and close proximity during conversations or breathing. It manifests flu-like symptoms and skin lesions, and can be fatal, with a mortality rate of 4 in 100 cases.
Outbreaks of Monkey Pox can be prevented and managed with vaccines, although these are typically reserved for individuals at risk or those in close contact with an infected person.
