Benue investigates suspected Mpox case

Benue State authorities are investigating a suspected Mpox case in the Konshisha Local Government Area, prompting the deployment of health officials and the activation of the state's surveillance system. Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, stated that while a suspected case has been reported, laboratory confirmation is essential before diagnosing Mpox. He advised residents against jumping to conclusions based on symptoms like skin rashes and fever, which can stem from various conditions.

The ministry is collaborating with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization to ensure prompt detection and response to public health events. Officials are working to collect clinical samples for testing and have emphasized that no Mpox outbreak has been confirmed in the state.

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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.

Ogwuche urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic. He encouraged individuals experiencing fever and unexplained rashes or blisters to report to the nearest health facility immediately and maintain physical distance until assessed by healthcare professionals. The ministry pledged to keep the public informed of investigation and laboratory findings and to implement appropriate response measures if Mpox or any other significant disease is confirmed.

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We encourage 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.