Nigeria is intensifying its fight against mpox disease through renewed efforts aimed at strengthening case management, improving surveillance, and expanding community awareness to curb the spread of the virus. The country is currently updating its clinical management guidelines, improving referral and data reporting systems, and scaling up public sensitisation campaigns to ensure early detection and better infection control.
Mpox has remained a persistent public health challenge in Nigeria since its re-emergence in 2017, with cases recorded across nearly all states. In 2024, the nation reported 189 confirmed infections, and as of 19 October 2025, the figure had risen to 389 confirmed cases and six deaths across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This ongoing transmission underscores the urgency of a coordinated response that prioritises updated medical guidance, strengthened surveillance, and active community engagement.
To address these challenges, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and with funding from the World Bank, convened a national workshop to review and modernise Nigeria's 2019 mpox case management and infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines. The older version, developed before the latest WHO recommendations, lacked integration of new clinical evidence and advancements in antiviral therapies. The updated framework now reflects global best practices and Nigeria's evolving epidemiological realities.
Participants at the workshop included clinicians, epidemiologists, infectious disease specialists, IPC officers, health educators, and representatives from affected states. One of the major outcomes was the creation of Nigeria's first national home-based care and isolation protocol for mpox. This groundbreaking protocol aims to strengthen linkages between home-based and facility-based care, ensuring that patients with mild symptoms receive appropriate treatment while reducing unnecessary hospitalisations and financial strain on households.
Dr. Odianosen Ehiakhamen from the NCDC highlighted the initiative's importance: "Our priority is to ensure that mpox patients receive safe, timely, and evidence-based care. By enhancing referral systems, data reporting, and standardising home-based management, we can limit community transmission and build a more resilient health system." WHO's Dr. Joshua Ofoli, Case Management and IPC Technical Officer, added, "Updating Nigeria's mpox guidelines reflects a strong national commitment to preparedness and patient safety. This revision will protect healthcare workers, improve patient outcomes, and enhance outbreak response capacity across all levels."
Experts like Professor Dimie Ogoina, an infectious disease specialist, also commended the move, noting that the new guidelines provide clarity for health workers. "Standardised home-based care, if effectively implemented, will improve coordination between communities and facilities, ensuring safer care delivery and strengthening health system efficiency," he said.
A key aspect of the new guidelines is the integration of digital reporting tools to enhance disease surveillance and ensure timely data collection. Diemebonso Oyaba, a Disease Surveillance Officer from Bayelsa State, explained that improved referral mechanisms and data linkages will support faster public health responses, early warnings, and targeted interventions in high-risk local government areas (LGAs). The updated system also defines specific roles for community health workers and surveillance officers in early detection, referral, and follow-up.
In parallel with the clinical updates, Nigeria is also rolling out community awareness and risk communication campaigns in 15 high-risk states. Working with the NCDC, WHO has trained 570 frontline health workers, distributed infection prevention and control (IPC) and triage tools, and initiated community-based surveillance activities. These efforts are complemented by grassroots sensitisation through radio broadcasts, market outreaches, town hall meetings, and door-to-door education, encouraging early reporting and dispelling misinformation.
In Kaduna State, the Ministry of Health and the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), with support from WHO, recently conducted awareness drives across Chikun Local Government Area (LGA). Market vendors, traders, and local leaders were educated on mpox symptoms, prevention, and the importance of prompt medical attention. "I used to think mpox was just a rumour," said Aisha Suleiman, a vegetable seller in Sabon Market. "Now I know it's preventable and treatable. I'll tell others not to hide if they notice any signs of infection."
Looking ahead, Nigeria's multi-pronged strategy -- which combines updated clinical protocols, robust data systems, and community-driven education -- aims to strengthen the national response to mpox and reduce future outbreaks. With continued support from WHO, the World Bank, and other health partners, Nigeria is reinforcing its commitment to disease prevention, patient safety, and resilient health systems. Long-term success will depend on sustained collaboration among government agencies, health professionals, development partners, and communities, ensuring that no region is left behind in the fight against mpox.