The Benue State Government on Saturday, July 25, 2026, debunked claims that there was an outbreak of Mpox in parts of the State.
This was contained in a statement by the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh Ogwuche, who stated that it is important to emphasise that skin rashes and fever can result from several medical conditions.
Dr Ogwuche said that laboratory confirmation is required before any diagnosis of Mpox can be made, stressing that the Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia-led government, places the highest priority on protecting the health of every Benue citizen.
The Health Commissioner appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic.
He further said; “We encourage anyone experiencing fever accompanied by unexplained rashes or blisters to report immediately to the nearest health facility for proper medical evaluation and to avoid close physical contact until assessed by healthcare professionals”.
The Health commissioner said the State disease surveillance system remains active across all 23 Local Government Areas, and maintain close collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Federal Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other development partners to ensure prompt detection and response to any public health event.
Dr Ogwuche also said that the Ministry of Health and Human Services is aware of reports circulating on social media regarding a suspected Mpox outbreak at Tyokula Achihi Residence, Korinya, Konshisha Local Government Area.
According to Ogwuche; “Immediately the information came to our attention, the Ministry activated its surveillance system in line with established public health protocols.
“The Director of Public Health was directed to liaise with the State Epidemiologist, who in turn immediately deployed the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Konshisha Local Government Area to the reported location for on-the-ground assessment, case investigation and collection of appropriate clinical samples for laboratory testing,” he said.
The Benue State government commended members of the community for promptly reporting the situation, stressing that early reporting is essential for effective disease surveillance and response.
The Health commissioner assured that the Ministry will continue to keep the public informed as soon as the investigation and laboratory findings become available. According to Ogwuche; “Should the results confirm Mpox or any other disease of public health importance, appropriate response measures will be implemented immediately in accordance with national guidelines.
“The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services remains committed to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of all residents of the state,” he stressed.
