Health authorities have discovered new Mpox cases in Ondo State. A vaccination campaign is now active. Learn what Mpox is and how to protect yourself and your family.
New Mpox Cases and Vaccination in Ondo State
Health authorities have found 12 new cases of Mpox in Ondo State. This discovery has led to the quick start of a vaccination campaign. The vaccination program began on August 11 and will run until August 21. The main goal is to give the vaccine to people who are most at risk of getting the disease. Officials have confirmed that the vaccine is safe and will help to control the outbreak in the state. This swift action shows how serious the government and health partners are about protecting the health of the people in Ondo State and preventing the disease from spreading further across Nigeria.
What is Mpox and How Does it Spread?
Mpox, which was formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can be spread from animals to humans, and also between humans. The disease is caused by a virus in the same family as the smallpox virus. However, Mpox is much less severe than smallpox. The virus can be spread to humans through direct contact with an infected animal, such as a monkey or a rodent. It can also spread from person to person through close contact with the body fluids, sores, or clothes of an infected person. This is why it is very important to avoid close contact with people who have the disease.
Mpox Symptoms: What to Look Out For
The symptoms of Mpox are similar to those of smallpox but they are milder. The first symptoms usually include a fever, headache, body pains, and feeling very tired. A rash, which looks like pimples or blisters, usually appears on the body a few days after the fever starts. The rash can appear on the face, hands, feet, and inside the mouth. These pimples or blisters will later become scabs and fall off. The sickness can last for about two to four weeks. If you see any of these symptoms in yourself or someone you know, you should go to a health center immediately.
The 12 New Cases Discovered in Ondo State
The discovery of 12 new cases in Ondo State is what has led to this new and urgent action. Health authorities in the state have confirmed the cases and are now working to contain the spread. They are tracking the people who have been in contact with the sick patients to make sure the virus does not spread more. The quick discovery and response are very important for controlling outbreaks. When cases are found early, it is easier to stop the disease from spreading widely to other parts of the state and the country.
Why Ondo State is a Focus for Health Authorities
Ondo State has been identified as a key location for Mpox surveillance due to the confirmed new cases and the risk of spread to neighboring areas. Health authorities are paying special attention to monitoring, testing, and vaccination efforts in the state to ensure the outbreak is contained before it becomes more widespread.
The Importance of a Quick Response to Mpox
Acting quickly when Mpox cases are detected is essential to stopping its spread. Rapid testing, case tracking, and vaccination reduce the number of people who may become infected. The Ondo response shows how speed and coordination between local and national health agencies can make a big difference in outbreak control.
The Mpox Vaccination Campaign in Ondo
The vaccination campaign that has just started in Ondo State is a key part of the response to this outbreak. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of a disease. The vaccine will help the body to build up a defense against the Mpox virus. This means that even if a vaccinated person comes in contact with the virus, they are less likely to get sick. The vaccine is a safe and important tool for protecting public health, and it will help to bring the outbreak under control faster.
Who Are the "At-Risk Groups"?
The vaccination campaign is not for everyone. It is specifically for "at-risk groups." This includes people who have been in close contact with someone who has Mpox. It also includes health workers who are treating patients with the disease. These groups are more likely to get infected, so giving them the vaccine first is the best way to stop the disease from spreading. The health authorities in Ondo are working to make sure that everyone in these high-risk groups gets the vaccine within the ten-day period of the campaign.
Why the Mpox Vaccine is Safe and Important
Health authorities have confirmed that the Mpox vaccine is safe. Like all vaccines, it has been tested to make sure it works and does not cause serious harm. The vaccine works by teaching your body how to fight the virus without actually making you sick. It is a very important tool for public health because it helps to protect not only the person who gets the shot but also the entire community. When many people are vaccinated, it becomes harder for the virus to spread, which helps to end the outbreak.
The Vaccination Schedule: August 11 to August 21
The vaccination campaign began on August 11, 2025 and will run until August 21, 2025. During this period, only members of identified at-risk groups will receive the vaccine. Health workers are urging eligible people to come forward as soon as possible to ensure full coverage before the campaign ends.
How Nigeria is Working to Control the Mpox Outbreak
Beyond Ondo State, Nigeria’s health authorities are strengthening surveillance systems, increasing testing capacity, and coordinating with the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent the virus from spreading further. Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to educate communities on prevention and symptoms.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family from Mpox
You can protect yourself and your family by:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after touching an infected person or animal.
- Avoiding close contact with anyone who has symptoms of Mpox.
- Not sharing bedding, towels, or clothing with an infected person.
FAQs: Questions on Mpox Answered
Q1: Is Mpox the same as smallpox?
A1: No, Mpox is not the same as smallpox. They are from the same family of viruses, but Mpox is much milder and less deadly than smallpox. The smallpox vaccine has also been found to be effective against Mpox.
Q2: How can I get the Mpox vaccine?
A2: If you live in Ondo State and you are in an at-risk group (for example, you have been in close contact with an infected person or you are a health worker), you should contact your nearest health center to ask about the vaccination campaign.
Q3: What should I do if I think I have Mpox?
A3: If you have symptoms like a fever and a rash, you should immediately go to a health center or call a health official. Do not touch the sores or come in close contact with other people.
Q4: How can I protect my family from Mpox?
A4: You can protect your family by washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after touching an infected person or animal. Do not share bedding, towels, or clothes with anyone who has the disease.
Q5: What are the treatment options for Mpox?
A5: Most cases of Mpox are mild and go away on their own. The main treatment is to care for the symptoms, like using pain relievers for body aches. In serious cases, doctors may use antiviral drugs.
Q6: What is the period for the vaccination campaign in Ondo?
A6: The vaccination campaign in Ondo State started on August 11 and will run until August 21, 2025. It is for at-risk groups only.
The discovery of new Mpox cases in Ondo State is a public health concern, but the quick response by health authorities is a very good sign. The vaccination campaign is an important step to stop the spread of the disease.
It is now up to the people of Ondo to cooperate with health officials and make sure that those who are at risk get the vaccine. By working together, we can protect our families and communities and make sure that this outbreak does not become a bigger problem for Nigeria.
Sources & References: NAN News: "Mpox: