Benue probes suspected Mpox case

Benue State health authorities are actively investigating a suspected case of Mpox in Konshisha Local Government Area, urging residents to remain calm and avoid premature conclusions. Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, stated that the ministry has activated its surveillance system and deployed personnel to the reported location.

Responding to an alleged discovery of Mpox at a residence in Tyokula Achihi, Ogwuche emphasized that symptoms such as skin rashes and fever can stem from various medical conditions. He stressed the necessity of laboratory confirmation before any diagnosis of Mpox can be made. "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," the commissioner said in a statement.

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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.

The Director of Public Health instructed the state Epidemiologist to deploy the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Konshisha Local Government Area. This officer is tasked with conducting an on-the-ground assessment, investigating the case, and collecting appropriate clinical samples for laboratory testing. The statement also noted that the state's disease surveillance system is operational across all 23 local government areas.

Commissioner Ogwuche appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could incite panic. He encouraged individuals experiencing symptoms like fever accompanied by unexplained rashes or blisters to report immediately to the nearest health facility. Close physical contact should be avoided until a healthcare professional provides an assessment. The ministry maintains close collaboration with national and international health organizations, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organisation, to ensure prompt detection and response to public health events.

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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.