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Medical Students in Northwest Nigeria: How They View the Mpox Vaccine

Northwest Nigeria, Kano,Tuesday, July 21, 2026

The World Health Organization has declared the Mpox outbreak a global emergency. In Nigeria, rising cases are raising alarms for future health workers.


Study Overview

  • Participants: 301 medical students from Bayero University Kano and Ahmadu Bello University, Kaduna
  • Method: Online questionnaire covering demographics, Mpox knowledge, vaccination attitudes, likelihood to vaccinate, and willingness to pay

Key Findings

Category Result
Age Most students were 21‑25 years old
Gender Predominantly male
Religion & Ethnicity Mostly Muslim and Hausa
Mpox Vaccine Awareness ~66% knew a vaccine exists
Positive Vaccination View Only 33% expressed it
Intention to Vaccinate >80% would get the shot if available

Implications & Recommendations

  • Financial Barrier: Cost remains a major hurdle despite high vaccine acceptance
  • Action Steps:
  • Offer the Mpox shot at reduced cost or free of charge
  • Provide clear, evidence‑based information on benefits and safety
  • Reassure students about the rarity of serious side effects

Implementing these measures could boost vaccination rates among future healthcare professionals once the vaccine becomes widely available.

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