The Nigerian government has contributed 1,000 doses of mpox vaccines to Rwanda to aid in controlling an outbreak of the disease. These vaccines are part of the 10,000 doses of Jynneos vaccines that Nigeria received from the United States in August.
According to Muyi Aina, executive director of Nigeria’s National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigeria has not experienced an active outbreak yet but decided to assist Rwanda due to their more urgent need, as they are currently grappling with infections. Rwanda had no immediate access to vaccines, prompting Nigeria to lend support.
Aina mentioned that Nigeria will soon distribute the remaining doses, focusing on those most vulnerable, especially at border entry points. Despite rising mpox cases, Nigeria’s vaccination campaign, initially planned to start on October 8th, has been delayed. So far, the country has recorded 1,339 suspected cases and 102 confirmed cases across 26 states and 67 local government areas.
This act of regional solidarity underscores the importance of collaboration in public health efforts across Africa.
