The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has made a significant contribution to Nigeria’s public health efforts by donating 10,000 doses of the mpox vaccine. This donation, delivered on Tuesday, is aimed at supporting Nigeria’s response to the ongoing mpox outbreak, a critical health issue that has been affecting various regions across the country.
Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease that can infect both humans and animals. It is primarily transmitted through close contact, including sexual interactions. To prevent the spread of mpox, vaccination is essential, particularly for individuals 18 years and older who are at high risk of infection. The vaccine comes in a two-dose primary series for those who have never received a smallpox vaccine, while those previously vaccinated against smallpox only require a single booster dose.
During the handover ceremony, Ambassador Richard Mills highlighted the importance of this donation. He expressed satisfaction that the vaccines would reach the most affected areas and the people most vulnerable to mpox. Ambassador Mills also urged the Nigerian government to continue mobilizing resources to secure more vaccines and ensure widespread protection against the disease.
The Nigerian government has identified five states—Bayelsa, Edo, Cross-River, Lagos, and Rivers—as having the highest burden of mpox cases. The vaccines will be distributed primarily to those at greatest risk, including close contacts of mpox patients and frontline healthcare workers. Additionally, there is provision for reactive vaccination in other states should the need arise.
Addressing concerns about the vaccine’s safety, Ambassador Mills reassured the public, stating that comprehensive safety tests were conducted ineduring clinical trials. These results were reviewed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) before the vaccine was approved for use in Nigeria, ensuring that it meets all necessary safety standards.
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The U.S. Government, through USAID, remains committed to providing technical support and collaborating with Nigeria to improve the country’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks. This partnership extends beyond the mpox outbreak, with USAID also assisting Nigeria in strengthening its primary healthcare and routine immunization systems. Additionally, USAID’s support includes broader initiatives to enhance health, education, nutrition, governance, and legal systems in Nigeria.
At the event, which took place at the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) headquarters, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kachollom Daju, expressed gratitude to the U.S. Government for its timely and valuable contribution. He emphasized that the federal government is fully committed to improving the health and well-being of all Nigerians. Professor Pate acknowledged the longstanding cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, expressing hope for continued support in the future.
He also extended thanks to other development partners, including USAID, PEPFAR, WHO, UNICEF, and various UN organizations, recognizing their crucial role in Nigeria’s public health landscape. As Nigeria continues to face health challenges, such collaborations are vital in ensuring that the country can effectively address diseases that pose significant public health concerns.
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