Ondo State Government has officially confirmed 12 cases of monkeypox, also known as M-pox, distributed among eight local government areas within the state.
This announcement was made by Victor Adefesoye, Director of Disease Control at the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHDA), during a stakeholders’ meeting on mpox vaccination held in Akure.
The affected local government areas include Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo. In response to the outbreak, Ondo State is initiating a vaccination campaign starting from August 11 through August 21, targeting residents aged 18 years and above.
Priority for vaccination includes those already infected, their close relatives and contacts, as well as health workers who have been in contact with infected persons.
Adefesoye emphasized that the vaccine is safe, free of charge, and requires two injectable doses administered at different intervals. He urged stakeholders and the public to encourage vaccination, acknowledging that some may be hesitant despite prior contact.
Alongside vaccination efforts, public health officials are promoting personal and environmental hygiene practices to curb the spread of monkeypox and protect the health of the community.
This proactive response aligns with ongoing efforts to contain the disease in Nigeria, ensuring that affected individuals receive prompt care while minimizing further transmission in Ondo State.
