- The new variant has raised global concerns
In response to the emergence of a more virulent strain of monkeypox (mpox) identified in several African countries, the Nigerian Federal Government has introduced stringent health screening protocols for incoming international travellers.
This initiative, announced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare alongside the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), aims to prevent the spread of the Clade Ib subclade of mpox, which has recently surged in parts of Africa.
The new variant, which has significantly impacted nations like the Democratic Republic of Congo since September 2024, has raised global concerns. Nine days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated it might convene an expert committee to determine whether the situation warrants declaring an international emergency, similar to the 2022 global mpox outbreak.
Mpox, described by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as a contagious viral disease affecting both humans and animals, presents symptoms including a rash that evolves into blisters and crusts, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease has affected at least 16 of Africa’s 55 countries, with 38,465 cases and 1,456 deaths reported across the continent since January 2022. Last week alone, 887 cases and five deaths were recorded.
In response to the rising threat, the Nigerian government has mandated all international travellers to complete a health declaration form prior to their arrival. This directive, highlighted on the Federal Ministry of Health’s website, is designed to facilitate the monitoring of potential disease importation and aid in controlling outbreaks.
The ministry emphasized that completing and submitting the form online before departure would help avoid delays upon arrival in Nigeria. The form collects personal information, as well as details about the traveller’s recent travel, health, and contact history over the past 21 days.
“This form is a crucial measure to prevent the spread, monitor the possible importation of infectious diseases, and aid in controlling disease outbreaks, thereby safeguarding the health of all Nigerians,” the ministry’s statement read.
For those unable to complete the form online, paper-based versions will be made available upon arrival in Nigeria.