The Ondo State Government has begun a targeted vaccination campaign against Mpox monkeypox for residents aged 18 and above in eight high-risk local government areas, following the confirmation of 12 cases across the state.
The Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (OSPHDA) said the pilot exercise, which started on August 11 and will run until August 21, covers Akoko South-West, Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Owo, Akure South, Akure North, Ondo East, and Odigbo LGAs.
Permanent Secretary of OSPHDA, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, described the new vaccine as safe, effective, and free, urging all eligible residents to take advantage of the programme.
He noted that healthcare workers had been mobilised for the exercise and called on community leaders to help raise awareness.
Director of Disease Control, Dr. Victor Adefesoye, said the injectable vaccine would be given in two doses, 28 days apart, with priority for confirmed patients, their close contacts, relatives, and healthcare workers who have treated them.
He warned that Mpox, a contagious viral disease transmitted by various animals, could also spread through direct contact with infected persons, and stressed the importance of hygiene and early reporting of suspected cases.
State Immunization Officer, Mrs. Florence Fadiji, advised residents to maintain good personal hygiene to curb transmission.
The stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting in Akure was attended by representatives of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, development partners, traditional rulers, religious leaders, NGOs, and senior government officials.