Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, confirmed yesterday that the state has not recorded any cases of Mpox across its 20 local government areas.
In a press statement issued to journalists in Abeokuta, the state capital, Dr. Coker emphasised that Ogun State has maintained rigorous surveillance since the global outbreak of Mpox in 2022.
“Mpox is a significant public health concern. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported outbreaks of a more virulent strain in several countries, and some states in Nigeria have also experienced Mpox outbreaks. The Ogun State Ministry of Health is fully aware of this threat and has implemented measures to prevent, detect, and respond to Mpox effectively,” she said.
Dr. Coker noted that the last reported case of Mpox in Ogun State was in May 2023, and no new confirmed cases have been reported since then. As of August 18, 2024, the state surveillance system had recorded 151 suspected cases of Mpox, but none have been confirmed as such. However, 53 of these cases tested positive for Chickenpox.
“We are addressing the Chickenpox cases in the state with appropriate measures. Public sensitisation on Mpox, Chickenpox, and other priority diseases continues through established platforms. There is no need for public panic,” she assured.
The commissioner urged residents to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, particularly those with rashes or skin lesions.
She also encouraged residents to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
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