The United States government has donated 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine to Nigeria, a significant move aimed at bolstering the country’s efforts in combating the Mpox virus. The handover ceremony took place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, in Abuja, with high-ranking officials from both countries in attendance.
Jynneos, a vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is designed to prevent smallpox and Mpox in adults who are at risk of infection. The vaccine’s delivery marks a crucial step in Nigeria’s public health efforts as the country continues to navigate the challenges posed by infectious diseases.
During the official handover, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, expressed profound gratitude to the U.S. government for their continued support. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, Prof. Pate said, “This generous donation reflects the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that has characterized our relationship with the United States over the years. The Federal Ministry of Health is committed to ensuring the well-being of every Nigerian, and this vaccine will be instrumental in achieving that goal.”
He also emphasized the dedication of Nigeria’s leadership to improving the health sector. “The Minister has reiterated that all health matters are of paramount importance to him, and Nigeria is fortunate to have such a committed Coordinating Minister, along with Dr. Tunji Alausa, our Minister of State for Health. Together, they are driving significant transformations within the health sector.”
Prof. Pate further acknowledged the crucial role of international partners in strengthening Nigeria’s health infrastructure. “We deeply appreciate the collaboration of our development partners, including USAID, PEPFAR, WHO, UNICEF, and various UN organizations. Their support is invaluable, and we look forward to receiving more assistance in the future.”
Mpox, a rare viral zoonotic disease primarily found in remote villages of Central and West Africa, is caused by the Mpox virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. Following the global eradication of smallpox, Mpox has emerged as the most significant Orthopoxvirus, posing a public health concern in affected regions.
On August 13, 2024, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared Mpox a public health emergency of continental security. This declaration underscores the urgency of addressing the virus across the African continent.
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), as of last Friday, the country had reported 40 confirmed cases of Mpox out of 830 suspected cases nationwide.
The U.S. donation of the Jynneos vaccine is expected to play a critical role in curbing the spread of Mpox in Nigeria, providing much-needed protection to those at risk. Further details on the vaccine distribution strategy are anticipated as the Federal Ministry of Health continues its efforts to safeguard the health of the Nigerian population.
