CurrentReport Blog Ogun State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, has assured residents that there is no need for panic, as the state has not recorded any cases of Mpox across its twenty local government areas. This assurance follows heightened concerns regarding the spread of Mpox in Nigeria.
Dr. Coker, in a statement , emphasized that since the global outbreak in 2022, Ogun State has maintained a robust surveillance system to monitor and respond to any public health concerns, including Mpox. The last recorded case of Mpox in Ogun State was in May 2023, and no confirmed cases have been reported since then.
“The Ministry of Health has implemented all necessary measures to prevent, detect, and respond appropriately to any public health threats,” Dr. Coker stated. “We are also aware of the recent Chickenpox cases in the state, and necessary measures are already in place to address them. Sensitization of the public on Mpox, Chickenpox, and other priority diseases is ongoing through established platforms.”
On August 18, 2024, the state surveillance system identified 151 suspected cases of Mpox. However, upon thorough investigation, 53 of these cases were confirmed to be Chickenpox, and none were verified as Mpox.
To further ensure public safety, Dr. Coker advised residents to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, particularly those with rashes or skin lesions. She also emphasized the importance of practicing good hand hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Additionally, residents are encouraged to wear protective gear such as gloves and masks when caring for someone with suspected or confirmed Mpox.
The Commissioner also cautioned against contact with animals that may harbor the virus, such as rodents and primates, particularly in regions where Mpox is known to occur. She further advised that all meat should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
Residents are urged to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility in the state to ensure prompt and appropriate response.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced on Friday that Nigeria has recorded a total of 40 confirmed cases of Mpox out of 830 suspected cases nationwide.
