Benue Denies Outbreak Of Mpox

The Benue state ministry of health and human services has denied an outbreak of Mpox, appealing to the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic.

The ministry 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.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, at the weekend, he explained that his ministry became aware of reports circulating on social media regarding a suspected Mpox outbreak at Tyokula Achihi Residence, Korinya, Konshisha Local Government Area.

Ogwuche said immediately the information came to their attention, the Ministry activated its surveillance system in line with established public health protocols.

He commended the community for promptly reporting the situation, adding that early reporting was essential for effective disease surveillance and response.

According to the statement, “The Ministry will continue to keep the public informed as soon as the investigation and laboratory findings become available. Should the results confirm Mpox or any other disease of public health importance, appropriate response measures will be implemented immediately in accordance with national guidelines.

“The Director of Public Health was directed to liaise with the State Epidemiologist, who in turn immediately deployed the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Konshisha Local Government Area to the reported location for on-the-ground assessment, case investigation and collection of appropriate clinical samples for laboratory testing”

The statement stated further that, “At this stage, no Mpox outbreak has been confirmed in Benue State. It is important to emphasise that skin rashes and fever can result from several medical conditions, and laboratory confirmation is required before any diagnosis of Mpox can be made”

Commissioner added, “The Government of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, places the highest priority on protecting the health of every Benue citizen. Our disease surveillance system remains active across all 23 Local Government Areas, and we maintain close collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other development partners to ensure prompt detection and response to any public health event” the statement said.