Nigeria Prioritizes High-Risk Groups in Mpox Immunization Campaign

Korede Abdullah in Lagos

Nigeria’s National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has announced plans to prioritize high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, laboratory workers, and immediate contacts, in the mpox immunization campaign.

This decision was made due to the limited number of vaccine doses available.

Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of NPHCDA, revealed this information during a press briefing commemorating World Polio Day.

He explained that the campaign will focus on high-risk areas, particularly centers that diagnose mpox, and will target healthcare workers, laboratory workers, and immediate contacts of mpox cases.

Nigeria has made significant progress in combating viral diseases, with a notable reduction in cases since 2021.

The country has achieved this through successful vaccination programs, reaching millions of children nationwide.

According to Dr. Aina, “We have made significant progress, but we cannot afford complacency. Continued support and cooperation are vital to achieving our goal of eradicating viral diseases.”

The NPHCDA has renovated over 240 Primary Health Care centers, enhanced community engagement through outreach programs and education, and digitally integrated thousands of children into its database.

Dr. Aina emphasized the importance of innovation, research, and international cooperation in combating viral diseases.

The NPHCDA has launched key initiatives to combat viral diseases, including promoting vaccine acceptance through community leader engagement, strengthening healthcare infrastructure through innovative technologies, and leveraging digital surveillance systems to enhance outbreak response.

Nigeria’s progress in eradicating viral diseases is a testament to the power of collective action. The NPHCDA’s efforts have saved countless lives, and the agency remains committed to transparency and accountability.

The NPHCDA’s collaborative approach with international organizations, local institutions, and healthcare workers has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.

As Nigeria continues to combat viral diseases, the agency’s commitment to innovation, research, and community engagement will be crucial in achieving its goals.