NCDC: Men More Likely to Contract Mpox in Nigeria, Data Shows

According to data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), men are more likely to contract mpox than women in Nigeria. The statistics, released on Monday, September 16, reveal that 67% of mpox cases reported in 2024 have been among men.

The NCDC stated, “Men are predominantly affected, accounting for approximately 70 percent of the 6,001 suspected and confirmed mpox cases recorded in Nigeria since September 2017, when the first confirmed cases occurred.”

In 2024 alone, there have been 1,031 suspected cases across 47 local government areas in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory. So far, 67 cases have been confirmed this year.

The data further show that children under five are the most affected group, with 15 confirmed cases, making up the largest proportion of the 64 confirmed cases in 2024. Other affected age groups include those in the 26–30 and 46–50 age ranges.

Mpox, also known as Monkeypox, is a viral infection that can affect both humans and animals. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that progresses into boils before crusting over.

The NCDC noted that, since September 2017, men have been disproportionately affected, making up over 70% of the 6,001 suspected and confirmed mpox cases reported in the country.

This information highlights the importance of public health awareness and preventive measures to limit the spread of the virus.