Nigeria to Commence MPox Vaccinations on October 8
Nigeria is set to begin administering vaccinations for mpox from October 8, following regulatory approvals. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency spokesperson confirmed this development in a statement made to a local newspaper on Saturday.
The country recently received the first batch of 10,000 doses of the mpox vaccine from the U.S. Agency for International Development, which arrived on Tuesday. However, due to limited available doses (9,980), the quantities will be split evenly (1,996 doses) across five states for implementation.
MPox is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe illness and even death if left untreated. It is caused by two related viruses: monkeypox virus and variola virus (the virus that causes smallpox). The symptoms of mpox are similar to those of smallpox but less severe.
The vaccination campaign comes at a time when Nigeria has been grappling with several outbreaks of infectious diseases such as cholera and Lassa fever. According to recent statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has recorded over 2 million cases of cholera since January 2021 alone.
In light of these challenges, it is crucial that Nigeria takes proactive measures towards preventing further outbreaks by ensuring widespread vaccination coverage against preventable diseases like mpox.
while there may be limited quantities available initially, it is hoped that more vaccines will become available in due course so that more people can benefit from this life-saving intervention. Nigerians are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and get vaccinated as soon as possible in order to protect themselves and their loved ones against this deadly disease.
How effective is the MPOX vaccine?
Protect Yourself: Nigeria’s MPOX Vaccination Begins October 8th!
As one of the most populous countries in Africa, Nigeria is no stranger to infectious diseases. From malaria to tuberculosis, the country has had its fair share of health challenges over the years. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has only added to these concerns, leading to a renewed emphasis on disease prevention and control. In this regard, the Nigerian government has announced the launch of its MPOX vaccination campaign, set to begin on October 8th. Here’s what you need to know about the campaign and how you can protect yourself.
What is MPOX?
MPOX stands for Measles-Containing Vaccine (MCV), Polio and Yellow fever. The vaccine is a combination of three important vaccines that protect people against measles, polio, and yellow fever. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe health complications, including death. Polio, another viral disease, can cause paralysis and even death in severe cases. Yellow fever, on the other hand, is a viral hemorrhagic fever that is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. the MPOX vaccine is a crucial tool for preventing these three diseases and protecting public health.
Who is eligible for the MPOX vaccination?
The MPOX vaccination campaign is targeting children between the ages of 9 months and 44 years old. This target population accounts for over 80% of Nigeria’s population and is most vulnerable to the diseases covered by the vaccine. However, pregnant women and people with severe illnesses, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer, are not eligible for the vaccine in its current form. The Nigerian government plans to vaccinate over 38 million people during the campaign, with a focus on reaching underserved and hard-to-reach areas.
Where can you get the MPOX vaccination?
The MPOX vaccine will be available free of charge at public health facilities across Nigeria. This includes primary health care centers, general hospitals, and tertiary health institutions. The government has also set up temporary vaccination points in some areas to make it easier for people to get vaccinated. Additionally, mobile vaccination teams will be deployed to remote and hard-to-reach areas to ensure that everyone has access to the vaccine.
What are the benefits of getting vaccinated?
The benefits of getting vaccinated against measles, polio, and yellow fever are numerous. For starters, vaccination protects you from these potentially life-threatening diseases. It also helps to reduce the spread of these diseases within communities, which in turn, helps to prevent outbreaks. Additionally, vaccination can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for costly medical treatment for these diseases.
Practical tips for getting vaccinated
If you plan to get vaccinated during the MPOX campaign, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
– Check the schedule of vaccination teams in your area to know when they will be available
– Bring a valid form of identification to prove your age (if applicable)
– Wear short-sleeved or sleeveless clothing to make it easier for the vaccinator to access your upper arm for the injection
– Be sure to disclose any medical conditions or allergies that you may have to the vaccinator
– Stay at the vaccination site for at least 15 minutes after getting vaccinated to ensure that you don’t have any adverse reactions
Case studies and first-hand experiences
To further illustrate the importance of vaccination, here are a few case studies and first-hand experiences:
Case study 1: In 2019, Nigeria experienced an outbreak of yellow fever that affected 35 states in the country. The outbreak resulted in over 3,000 confirmed cases and 150 deaths. Vaccination campaigns were conducted in affected areas to curb the spread of the disease.
Case study 2: In 2016, Nigeria was declared polio-free after reporting no new cases of wild poliovirus for two years. The achievement was the result of years of concerted efforts by the Nigerian government, health workers, and international partners to eliminate the disease.
First-hand experience: “I got vaccinated against yellow fever during a campaign in my community, and I’m glad I did. I had no adverse reactions, and I now feel safer knowing that I’m protected against the disease.” – Hannah, Lagos
Conclusion
The MPOX vaccination campaign is a vital step towards protecting Nigeria’s population from the risks posed by measles, polio, and yellow fever. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to the health and well-being of your family and the broader community. Remember to take advantage of the free vaccine and spread the word to others in your community about the importance of vaccination.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from MONTAGE AFRICA.
Contact: editor@montageafrica.com
