In response to the emergence of a more virulent strain of monkeypox (mpox) identified in several African countries, the Nigerian Federal Government has implemented strict health screening protocols for international travelers entering the country.
This initiative, announced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), aims to curb the spread of the Clade Ib subclade of mpox, which has recently seen a surge in parts of Africa.
The new variant, which has significantly affected countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo since September 2024, has raised global concerns. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently suggested it may convene an expert committee to assess whether the situation warrants declaring an international emergency, akin to the global mpox outbreak in 2022.
Mpox, described by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as a contagious viral disease that affects both humans and animals, manifests with symptoms such as a rash that progresses into blisters and crusts, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease has impacted 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 light of this growing threat, the Nigerian government now requires all international travelers to complete a health declaration form before their arrival. This measure, outlined on the Federal Ministry of Health’s website, is intended to monitor potential disease importation and assist in controlling outbreaks.
The ministry emphasized that completing and submitting the form online before departure will help prevent delays upon arrival in Nigeria. The form gathers personal information along with details about the traveler’s recent travel, health, and contact history over the past 21 days.
“This form is a vital measure to prevent the spread, monitor potential importation of infectious diseases, and aid in controlling outbreaks, thereby protecting the health of all Nigerians,” the ministry stated.
For those unable to complete the form online, paper versions will be available upon arrival in Nigeria.
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