The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on Cross River Government to urgently enhance its surveillance mechanisms against Mpox, amidst increased vulnerability.
The Cross River chapter of the association also warned that the state was more vulnerable than others.
Dr Ukam Edadi, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the NMA, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Calabar.
NAN reports that the mpox virus, which initially broke out in Central Africa, has since spread to several West African countries, including Nigeria, where 39 cases have been officially recorded.
Edadi emphasised the importance of proactive measures, given Cross River’s unique risk factors.
According to him, Cross River is particularly at risk because of its status as a major tourist destination with vast forest reserves, including a Gorilla Sanctuary.
“Hunters and other individuals who come into frequent contact with wildlife could easily become hosts for the virus”.
He further highlighted the state’s geographical vulnerability due to its borders with Cameroon and other Central African countries where the outbreak originated.
He said that from areas such as Boki, Ikom, Bakassi, and others, the state shared boundaries with Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, making it more susceptible to the virus.
He stressed the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, particularly in border communities, and called for intensive awareness campaigns to address the current lack of public knowledge of the disease in the state.
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