The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging an Mpox outbreak at Tyokula Achihi Residence in Korinya, Konshisha Local Government Area (LGA), assuring residents that no case of the disease has been confirmed in the state.
Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is said to spread through close skin-to-skin contact, sexual activity, or touching contaminated items like bedding and towels.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, July 25, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, said the ministry swiftly activated its disease surveillance mechanism immediately the report came to its attention. He disclosed that the Director of Public Health was directed to liaise with the State Epidemiologist, who promptly deployed the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Konshisha LGA to the area to conduct an on-the-ground assessment, investigate the suspected case and collect clinical samples for laboratory testing.
According to the commissioner, laboratory confirmation remains the only basis for diagnosing Mpox, stressing that symptoms such as fever and skin rashes may be associated with several other medical conditions. He therefore urged members of the public not to draw conclusions until the investigation and laboratory analysis are completed, reiterating that there is currently no confirmed Mpox outbreak in Benue State.
Dr. Ogwuche said the administration of Fr. Hyacinth Alia has prioritised the protection of public health through an active disease surveillance system across the state’s 23 LGAs. He added that the ministry is working closely with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other development partners to ensure prompt detection and response to any public health emergency.
The health commissioner appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic. He encouraged anyone experiencing fever accompanied by unexplained rashes or blisters to report immediately to the nearest health facility for proper medical evaluation and to avoid close physical contact until assessed by healthcare professionals.
Dr Ogwuche also commended members of the community for promptly reporting the suspected case, noting that early reporting is critical to effective disease surveillance and response, and assured the public that they would be updated as soon as the laboratory results become available.
