The Ondo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (OSPHDA) has confirmed 12 cases of mpox in eight local government areas, prompting the commencement of targeted vaccination to curb its spread.
Director of Disease Control, Dr Victor Adefesoye, announced the development during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, noting that the contagious disease — once thought to be transmitted only by monkeys — can be spread by various animals as well as human contact.
The vaccination campaign, which began on August 11 and will run until August 21, targets people aged 18 and above who have contracted the disease, their close contacts, and health workers who have treated them. Identified LGAs include Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo.
Adefesoye explained that recipients will receive two doses of the injectable vaccine at separate intervals, urging community and religious leaders to help mobilise participation. He also stressed the importance of maintaining personal and environmental hygiene to reduce infection risks.