Mpox Alert: Benue Confirms 6 Cases, Begins Targeted Vaccination Drive

Health authorities in Benue State have confirmed six cases of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), with a total of 31 suspected cases reported across five Local Government Areas (LGAs). The affected LGAs include Makurdi, Ushongo, Gwer East, Katsina-Ala, and Guma.

The update was shared on Thursday by Mrs. Grace Wende, Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, during a stakeholders’ engagement and town hall meeting for the Mpox vaccination rollout.

Speaking through the State Immunisation Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Adega, Mrs. Wende explained the case breakdown:

Makurdi: 10 suspected, 3 confirmed

Katsina-Ala: 8 suspected, 2 confirmed

Gwer East: 7 suspected, 1 confirmed

Guma: 4 suspected, 1 confirmed

Ushongo: 2 suspected, 0 confirmed

The cases were recorded in June, with laboratory confirmations received in July.

Mrs. Wende also revealed that all individuals who had contact with the confirmed patients have been identified and monitored for 43 days. Thankfully, none of them developed symptoms, and they will now be vaccinated as a precaution.

She emphasized that the Mpox vaccination campaign will not cover the entire state due to limited vaccine supply but will instead target high-risk communities.

“We urge all stakeholders to support the campaign and encourage quick reporting of suspected Mpox cases,” Wende said.

During the event, Victor Olaniyi, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Health Consultant, explained that Mpox is a highly contagious viral disease that causes symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and blister-like rashes.

He assured the public that the vaccine is safe, effective, and approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization (WHO). The vaccine will be administered free of charge to individuals aged 18 and above, with two doses required for full protection.

Olaniyi also stressed the importance of maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with anyone showing symptoms.

As Benue State ramps up its response, health officials are calling for calm, cooperation, and vigilance to curb the spread of the virus.