Nigeria launches mpox vaccination campaign amid initial delays

NIGERIA—Nigeria has launched its mpox vaccination program after initial delays caused by cold chain challenges and vaccine hesitancy.

According to Africa CDC, this campaign, which was set to begin on November 18, 2024, will focus on healthcare workers and individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly in hospitals across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja.

The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) Executive Director, Dr. Muyi Aina, explained that the vaccination campaign mainly targets healthcare workers in facilities with confirmed cases and those in close contact with infected individuals.

As of epidemiological weeks 1-43, Nigeria had reported 118 confirmed mpox cases, prompting the launch of the vaccination effort.

Nigeria became the first African nation to receive mpox vaccines in August 2024.

However, the initial plans to start the rollout in October were delayed due to the specific cold chain requirements for the Bavarian Nordic JYNNEOS vaccine, donated by USAID.

Once thawed, this vaccine must be used within 12 hours, requiring special gel packs for transportation and temperature-monitoring devices to ensure its effectiveness.

To support the successful rollout, Africa CDC’s Incident Management team representative visited Nigeria, offering technical assistance and working closely with local authorities and partners to ensure the country was ready for the vaccination campaign.

Oluyinka Olayemi, the NPHCDA’s National Coordinator, emphasized the importance of this effort, stating, “This rollout is significant in breaking transmission chains and preventing further spread.”

The vaccination campaign is targeting three key groups: frontline healthcare workers, individuals in close contact with mpox cases, and people living with HIV.

Vaccinations are being administered at three sites in each of the selected states, including FCT, Bayelsa, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River.

The rollout plan involved extensive planning, including meetings with state teams to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure smooth uptake.

Given Nigeria’s large population, the logistical complexities of maintaining the vaccine’s cold chain required careful planning in terms of time, resources, and budget.

The initial 8,960 doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine are seen as a crucial step forward.

Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, expressed his appreciation for the vaccine donation, stating, “We are pleased to receive this initial donation of a safe and efficacious mpox vaccine.”

To further support Nigeria’s efforts, the Africa CDC plans to deploy additional vaccine doses, with the US government having already sent 10,000 doses.

In addition, 899,000 doses will be distributed across nine African countries, with Nigeria set to receive more supplies.

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