NCDC reports higher Mpox infection among males in Nigeria

Statistics from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention have shown that more of those getting infected with Mpox in Nigeria are males.

According to figures posted on the NCDC website on Monday, September 16, 67 per cent of Mpox cases recorded since January 2024 were in males. 

The agency said, “Men are predominantly affected, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of 6,001 suspected and confirmed Mpox cases recorded in Nigeria since September 2017, when the first confirmed cases occurred.” 

The figures revealed that a total of 1,031 suspected cases have been reported across 47 local government areas in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with 67 confirmed cases in 2024.

The age and sex distribution in the report showed that children under five years old are the most affected, followed by the 26-30 and 46-50 age groups. 

Out of the 64 confirmed cases recorded in 2024, children under five accounted for the highest number, with 15 confirmed cases.

The NCDC highlighted that men are predominantly affected, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of the 6,001 suspected and confirmed Mpox cases recorded in Nigeria since September 2017, when the first confirmed cases occurred. 

 Mpox, previously known as Monkey Pox, is an infectious viral disease that can occur in humans and other animals. Symptoms include a rash that forms blisters and then crusts over, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.