South Africa, Nijeria: On Tuesday, Nigeria marked a significant milestone by becoming the first African nation to receive 10,000 doses of mpox vaccines, aimed at curbing the spread of a new mpox virus strain.

The delivery follows the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024, due to the surge in mpox cases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced efforts to ensure fair vaccine distribution in response to the crisis.

The United States has contributed the Jynneos (MVA) vaccine to Nigeria, which will be distributed across five states with the highest incidence of mpox.

Nigeria’s Health Minister, Muhammad Ali Pate, expressed gratitude for the vaccine donation, stating, "We are pleased to receive this initial batch of the mpox vaccine, which is both safe and effective. Our commitment remains to enhance surveillance and control efforts against mpox."

The MVA vaccine will be administered in a two-dose regimen to 5,000 individuals at high risk, including close contacts of confirmed cases and frontline healthcare workers. The WHO’s regional office for Africa has outlined provisions for additional vaccinations in other states as required.

Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has approved the emergency use of the vaccine while it awaits distribution.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, highlighted the importance of this vaccine delivery, stating, "The arrival of mpox vaccines in Nigeria not only bolsters current efforts to combat the virus but also exemplifies global solidarity during public health emergencies."

Despite this progress, WHO's Africa office reports persistent "serious gaps in mpox vaccine access" across the continent. Efforts are underway to expand vaccine availability through collaborations with manufacturers and organizations such as UNICEF. A donation scheme is being developed to ensure vaccines reach the most affected areas.

In addition to vaccine distribution, WHO is assisting Nigeria in strengthening surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory capabilities, risk communication, and community engagement. As of August 10, 2024, Nigeria has reported 786 suspected cases and 39 confirmed cases of mpox. Health officials are focusing on early detection, diagnostics, and enhanced cross-border surveillance at key entry points to further combat the outbreak.