We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued its first update on cases of monkeypox in the country since February 2018, following the discovery of 2 cases in the UK. Between September 2017 and 31 August 2018, there have been 262 suspected cases of monkeypox in Nigeria, with 7 deaths. NCDC previously reported that 4 of those who died had underlying medical conditions.
Monkeypox is a rare infection related to smallpox. It resembles the less severe variola minor form of smallpox and is generally fatal in only a minority of cases. Monkeypox is unusual in travellers and tends to occur in isolated rural or forest areas.
Nearly all cases have occurred in Central or West Africa, with only a few cases ever reported outside Africa. Most infections result from direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or cutaneous/ mucosal lesions of infected animals including monkeys, giant rats, squirrels and rabbits. Rodents are the major source of infection. Eating undercooked meat of infected animals is a possible risk factor.
There is no specific vaccine or treatment for monkeypox and prevention is by avoiding contact with infected animals and people.
For further information see Monkeypox.