Ondo Confirms 12 Mpox Cases Across Eight LGAs, Commences Targeted Vaccination
The Ondo State Government has confirmed 12 cases of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, across eight local government areas, prompting the launch of a targeted vaccination campaign to curb the spread of the virus.
The exercise, which began on Monday, August 11, will run until August 21.
The affected LGAs are Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo. According to the Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the vaccination drive will prioritise adults aged 18 and above, confirmed Mpox patients, their close contacts, and healthcare workers who manage the disease.
Health officials said the vaccine, administered in two doses, is safe, free of charge, and critical in halting community transmission. They urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community-based organisations to mobilise residents, stressing that good personal and environmental hygiene should complement immunisation efforts.
Mpox is a contagious viral illness that can spread through contact with infected animals, contaminated surfaces, or close human interaction.
Symptoms typically include skin rashes, body sores, fever, headaches, and general weakness.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has identified Ondo State as accounting for 32 per cent of the country’s Mpox cases in 2025, with five states together responsible for 89 per cent of infections nationwide. Although recent weeks have seen a slight decline in new cases, the NCDC warns that the fatality rate remains a concern, making prevention and swift response measures essential.
State health authorities have called on residents to cooperate fully with health teams, emphasising that the success of the vaccination campaign will play a key role in containing the outbreak and preventing further spread.
