Nigeria made history on Tuesday by being the first country in Africa to receive a shipment of 10,000 doses of mpox vaccines. This development comes as a response to the outbreak of the viral disease that has caused concern globally and prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a public health emergency.
The mpox vaccines, known as Jynneos (MVA) and manufactured by Bavarian Nordic pharmaceutical company, were generously donated by the United States government. These vaccines are earmarked for distribution in five states with the highest number of mpox cases. The initial phase will involve administering two doses to 5,000 individuals considered most at risk, such as close contacts of mpox cases and frontline healthcare workers. There is also provision for reactive vaccination in other states based on emerging needs.
During an official handover ceremony held in Abuja, Prof Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, expressed gratitude towards the US government for their donation. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of its citizens. Representing Prof Pate at the event, Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom conveyed appreciation stating:
“This vaccine will be of great help to us… all our policies and collaborations are focused on ensuring our citizens’ health.”
Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director of Africa, praised this international collaboration saying:
“The delivery of the mpox vaccines not only adds crucial support in halting the virus but also showcases global solidarity during public health crises.”
She highlighted the urgent need for increased global assistance to combat the threat posed by mpox.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively working with countries and manufacturers to improve access to vaccines worldwide. Efforts include expediting Emergency Use Listing procedures for vaccines aimed at facilitating access especially for lower-income nations. Collaborations with partners like Gavi, UNICEF, and national authorities aim to establish donation programs utilizing existing vaccine stockpiles effectively.
In Nigeria specifically, preparations are underway for mass vaccination campaigns following Emergency Use Authorization granted by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control. Strategic measures have been put in place to ensure swift deployment of vaccines targeting priority populations.
Despite progress made through donations like these mpox vaccines from developed nations like USAID; challenges remain concerning equitable access across regions such as Africa where gaps persist.
In light of this situation:
– Nigeria continues its efforts toward outbreak response strategies
– WHO supports surveillance enhancement
– Countries with no reported cases are urged to bolster preparedness measures
Nigeria has grappled with recurrent mpox cases over recent years including a peak in 2022. As of August 10th, 2024; there were 786 suspected cases reported this year alone with no fatalities recorded so far indicating improved containment strategies adopted within affected regions.
While reflecting on ongoing dynamics surrounding infectious diseases management; it’s evident that collaborative endeavors spearheaded by organizations like WHO serve as pivotal resources aiding national responses during public health crises.
Leave feedback about this