The Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHDA) has confirmed 12 cases of mpox in eight local government areas of the state.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on mpox vaccination in Akure, the Director of Disease Control at OSPHDA, Dr. Victor Adefesoye, explained that the disease, once believed to be spread only by monkeys, can actually be spread by several animals.
He said mpox is contagious, which makes it important to stop its spread through vaccination.
According to Dr. Adefesoye, the vaccination is safe and will start on August 11 and end on August 21. It will be given to selected people who are 18 years and above.
“This meeting is to help us spread the word in your communities, religious groups, and organizations so that people will take the vaccine,” he said.
He explained that the confirmed cases were in Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo.
Dr. Adefesoye said this vaccination process is different from others because they already know the people they want to vaccinate.
“They are people who already have the disease, their close relatives, their contacts, and the health workers who have treated them,” he said.
He added that although these people have been contacted, some might still be reluctant to take the vaccine. He called on community leaders to encourage them to get vaccinated.
The vaccination will be given in two doses at different times, Dr. Adefesoye noted.
He also urged residents of Ondo State to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for a healthier society.
The State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Florence Fadiji, explained that mpox can spread through contact with infected animals, infected people, or contaminated objects.
She listed symptoms of mpox to include body sores, rashes, fever, headache, and body weakness.
Mrs. Fadiji said the vaccine may cause mild reactions, but this is far less harmful than the disease itself.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of OSPHDA, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, said stakeholders play an important role in convincing targeted people to take the vaccine.
He stressed that the vaccination should be seen as a welcome development for the health of the state.
