NCDC Reports Higher Mpox Infection Rates Among Males in Nigeria

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released new statistics revealing a significantly higher infection rate of Mpox among males in Nigeria. The viral disease, which was previously known as Monkeypox, continues to pose a public health challenge across the country.

Higher Infection Rates Among Males

According to data published by the NCDC on September 16, 2024, males account for the majority of Mpox cases. The report indicated that approximately 67% of infections recorded since January 2024 were among men. Over the years, this gender disparity has remained a constant trend, with 70% of the total 6,001 suspected and confirmed Mpox cases since 2017 occurring in males.

Mpox Cases Since 2017

Since the first confirmed case of Mpox in Nigeria in September 2017, the NCDC has reported a significant number of infections. As of 2024, the cumulative number of suspected cases has risen to 6,001, with a total of 1,031 suspected cases reported across 47 local government areas in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The confirmed number of cases in 2024 is 67.

Impact on Different Age Groups

The age distribution of Mpox cases shows that children under the age of five are the most affected demographic, followed by the 26-30 and 46-50 age groups. Out of the 64 confirmed cases in 2024, 15 cases were in children under five, making them particularly vulnerable to the disease.

Mpox Overview: Symptoms and Transmission

Mpox is a viral disease that can affect both humans and animals. It is characterized by symptoms such as a rash that forms blisters and crusts over, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can spread through direct contact with the rash, body fluids, or respiratory droplets of an infected individual. Though it was once referred to as Monkeypox, the name was changed to Mpox in recent years to reflect a more accurate understanding of the disease’s nature and transmission.

Public Health Response and Prevention

The NCDC continues to raise awareness about Mpox and urges individuals to take preventive measures to reduce the spread of the virus. These include maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and promptly reporting suspected cases to health authorities. The agency is also working to improve surveillance and containment measures to prevent further outbreaks.

General Opinion

Mpox remains a public health concern in Nigeria, with males being disproportionately affected by the virus. The NCDC’s continued efforts in monitoring and preventing the spread of Mpox are crucial to managing the outbreak and protecting vulnerable populations, especially young children.

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