Benue begins investigation after suspected Mpox report
Benue State Government Investigates Suspected Mpox Case
The Benue State Government has initiated an investigation into a suspected case of Mpox in the Konshisha Local Government Area. This announcement was made by Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, on Saturday following reports of a potential infection at the residence of Tyokula Achihi in the Korinya community.
In response to the situation, the Ministry of Health activated its disease surveillance protocol as per public health guidelines and sent health officials to the area for assessment.
Dr. Ogwuche cautioned residents against assuming that all cases of fever and skin rashes indicate Mpox, as these symptoms can be associated with numerous medical conditions. He emphasized that laboratory analysis is essential for confirming a Mpox infection.
“The Director of Public Health has been instructed to coordinate with the State Epidemiologist,” Ogwuche noted. “The Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer for Konshisha has been dispatched to the site for an on-site evaluation, investigation, and collection of clinical samples for testing.”
At this time, no Mpox outbreak has been confirmed in Benue State. Ogwuche reiterated that skin rashes and fevers can arise from various illnesses, requiring laboratory confirmation before any diagnosis of Mpox.
The commissioner reassured the public that the state’s disease surveillance system operates across all 23 local government areas to facilitate early detection of potential health threats. He also disclosed ongoing collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners to enhance surveillance and emergency response efforts.
Ogwuche urged residents to remain calm and avoid disseminating unverified information that may incite undue panic. He recommended that individuals experiencing fever with unexplained rashes or blisters seek immediate evaluation at the nearest health facility and minimize close contact until assessed by healthcare professionals.
The commissioner will provide further updates following the completion of laboratory investigations and subsequent findings. He assured that if test results indicate Mpox or another public health concern, the government will implement necessary response measures in accordance with national health guidelines.
