No fewer than 12 cases of Mpox have been confirmed in eight local government areas of Ondo State, prompting health authorities to commence a targeted vaccination campaign from August 11 to 21.
The Director of Disease Control at the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Victor Adefesoye, disclosed this on Monday in Akure during a stakeholders’ meeting on the vaccination exercise.
Adefesoye explained that Mpox, previously believed to be transmitted mainly by monkeys, is now known to spread through various animals. He described the disease as highly contagious, stressing the need to contain its spread through immunisation.
According to him, the campaign will focus on people aged 18 and above who have contracted the disease, their close contacts, and health workers who have handled cases. He stated that beneficiaries will receive two doses of the injectable vaccine at different intervals.
“The essence of this meeting is to help us inform people in your communities, religious groups, and organisations to take this vaccine,” Adefesoye said. “The disease is with us in Ondo State, particularly in these local government areas: Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo.”
He added: “This vaccination process is different from previous vaccinations because we know the targeted people and we have contacted them. They already have the disease, and we will also vaccinate their close relatives, contacts, and health workers who have handled them. We anticipate that, though we have contacted them, some may still feel reluctant to take it. We encourage you as stakeholders to encourage them and be vaccinated.”
The Director emphasized that the targeted people would be given two doses of the injectable vaccine at different intervals. He therefore enjoined residents to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for a healthy society.
The State Immunisation Officer, Mrs. Florence Fadiji, listed symptoms of the disease as body sores, rashes, fever, headache, and general body weakness. She noted that transmission occurs through contact with infected animals, persons, or objects.
“Any post-vaccination reactions would be minimal compared to the burden of the disease,” Fadiji assured.
The Permanent Secretary of OSPHDA, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, appealed to stakeholders to mobilize eligible residents for vaccination, describing the exercise as critical for public health.
“This vaccination should not be taken lightly, but appreciated by all and sundry for the betterment of the state,” Akanbiemu stated.