Nigeria has reported three deaths linked to Mpox in 2025. The deaths occurred in Abia, Ebonyi, and Rivers states. All three victims were young males with advanced HIV and tuberculosis.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed that the case fatality rate now stands at 2.2 percent for the year.
723 suspected cases across 35 states
As of early May, 723 suspected Mpox cases have been reported across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Out of these, 136 cases have been confirmed in 27 states and the FCT.
NCDC Director General, Dr Jide Idris, shared these details during the National Health Security meeting held in Abuja.
Emergency operation centre activated
To contain the spread, the NCDC has activated a national Emergency Operation Centre. This centre holds weekly meetings with hotspot states and offers leadership at both national and local levels.
National Rapid Response Teams have also been sent to affected states. These teams are helping local health workers improve their response and reporting.
Essential supplies distributed
The NCDC has sent essential medicines, intravenous fluids, protective equipment, and laboratory materials to several states. These supplies have been placed in advance to ensure quick access during case surges.
This strategy is part of a broader effort to manage the rising number of infections and reduce fatalities.
Mpox resurgence since 2017
Mpox reemerged in Nigeria in 2017 and has been rising since. Major spikes in cases occurred between 2022 and 2024. This pattern has made Nigeria one of the countries most affected by the virus.
The NCDC says many states are still slow to report cases. Some local authorities see Mpox as a public embarrassment and delay information sharing.
Poor data entry affects response
There have been problems with data entry and reporting. Field surveillance is active, but case data is not always entered into the national system on time. This delay can slow down the overall response to outbreaks.
Most of the confirmed cases have been found in southern and central Nigeria. However, suspected cases have been reported from nearly all states.
Laboratory capacity improved
The NCDC has improved testing capacity by upgrading laboratories in different regions. Samples are now tested at the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja and the Central Public Health Laboratory in Lagos.
Five new Mpox testing labs have been set up in Bauchi, Kano, Cross River, Rivers, and Enugu. These labs are being supported through mentorship programs to improve sample handling and result reporting.
Health workers receive new training
Healthcare workers are receiving training on how to manage Mpox cases. The training includes infection prevention, patient care, and case reporting.
Hands-on workshops are also being held for managing other infections like cerebrospinal meningitis.
This effort is designed to ensure healthcare workers are fully equipped to respond quickly and safely during outbreaks.
Mpox deaths under review
The NCDC is conducting a detailed review of the three deaths in Abia, Ebonyi, and Rivers states. All three cases involved people with weakened immune systems due to HIV and tuberculosis.
The aim of the review is to identify gaps in the health response and find ways to protect vulnerable groups in future outbreaks.
Community outreach expanded
Public health teams are now working more closely with communities. Daily meetings with local health teams help adjust health messages and track public feedback.
The NCDC is using community outreach to fight misinformation and stigma. It is also encouraging people to report symptoms early and avoid close contact with infected individuals.
What to know about Mpox
Mpox is a virus that spreads through close contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated objects. Symptoms include fever, rash, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
In some cases, the infection can become severe, especially for people with existing health conditions. Mpox has been declared a public health concern in several countries, including Nigeria.
Nigeria’s response continues
The Nigerian government and the NCDC are working together to slow the spread of Mpox. More labs, trained staff, and emergency supplies have been put in place to support this effort.
However, health experts say that better reporting, faster testing, and public awareness are still needed.
