Osun Confirms Two Cases of Monkeypox

Osun State has confirmed two cases of monkeypox in Ilesa West Local Government Area, according to the State Commissioner for Health, Jola Akintola. The confirmation was made on Monday, as the commissioner urged residents not to panic, assuring them that the state government is taking proactive measures to manage the situation effectively.

During a meeting of the Ministry of Health’s Monkeypox Emergency Operation Centre (EOC Pillar) in Osogbo, Akintola emphasized that monkeypox is a preventable disease and reassured the public that the state has successfully handled previous health challenges, including COVID-19 and the prevention of a cholera outbreak. He stated, “With two confirmed monkeypox cases, the EOC has been activated, and stakeholders will meet every Monday to strategize on preventing the spread of the virus.”

The state epidemiologist, Dr. Omolola Adeagbo, provided a detailed report, noting that from week 1 to week 34 of the EPI, 47 suspected cases were recorded across 13 local government areas, with two cases confirmed, both involving male patients aged 5 and 25 years in Ilesa West. Measures taken include the deployment of Rapid Response Team (RRT) members, advocacy and sensitization efforts in affected communities, aggressive case tracing, and increased health facility surveillance.

World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Coordinator, Dr. Ojediran Oluwatoyin, and UNICEF Country Coordinator, Israel Solomon, highlighted that while there is currently no monkeypox vaccine available in the country, ongoing awareness campaigns and community engagement should be intensified. The state government has also advised residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious symptoms to the appropriate authorities.

The confirmed cases are linked to the Government Hospital in Ilesa West, and the state government remains committed to preventing the spread of monkeypox within Osun State.