At least 12 cases of mpox have been confirmed across eight Local Government Areas in Ondo State, according to the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHDA). The agency made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting on mpox vaccination held in Akure.
Victor Adefesoye, Director of Disease Control at OSPHDA, explained that while mpox was previously associated with transmission through monkeys, it is now known to be spread by various animals. He emphasized the highly contagious nature of the disease and the urgent need to control its spread through vaccination.
The vaccination campaign is scheduled to run from August 11 to August 21, targeting individuals aged 18 and above. Adefesoye stressed that the goal of the stakeholders’ meeting was to urge community leaders, religious groups, and organizations to encourage eligible individuals to receive the vaccine.
He listed the affected LGAs as Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo. Adefesoye noted that the vaccination effort would focus specifically on those already diagnosed with the disease, their close contacts, and health workers involved in their care.
“This vaccination is different from previous exercises. We’ve identified the target groups and reached out to them directly. Despite this, some may hesitate, which is why we’re asking stakeholders to help encourage them,” he said.
He added that recipients would receive two doses of the injectable vaccine at different intervals and urged residents to maintain personal and environmental hygiene to support public health.
Speaking at the same event, State Immunisation Officer Florence Fadiji explained that mpox can spread through direct contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. She identified symptoms such as rashes, fever, body sores, headaches, and fatigue. While minor side effects from the vaccine may occur, she emphasized that they are minimal compared to the risks posed by the disease.
Also present was OSPHDA’s Permanent Secretary, Francis Akanbiemu, who called on stakeholders to serve as advocates for the vaccination effort. He described the campaign as a critical step toward safeguarding public health and urged widespread support for its success.