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Health officials in Benue State have begun investigating a suspected Mpox case reported in Korinya, Konshisha Local Government Area, following concerns raised by residents over an unidentified skin illness.
Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Paul Ogwuche, said on Saturday that the ministry had deployed its surveillance team to the area in line with 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,” Ogwuche said.
He urged the public not to assume that every case of rash and fever was Mpox, noting that such symptoms could be linked to various medical conditions.
“At this stage, no Mpox outbreak has been confirmed in Benue State,” the commissioner said.
“It is important to emphasise that skin rashes and fever can result from several medical conditions, and laboratory confirmation is required before any diagnosis of Mpox can be made.”
The investigation follows a request by members of the Tyokula Achihi community, who had raised alarm over a skin disease affecting several young people.
Those affected reportedly developed fever, rashes and blister-like lesions, prompting appeals for government intervention.
Ogwuche said the ministry was working with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation to ensure a coordinated response.
He advised residents to report cases of fever with unexplained rashes to the nearest health facility and avoid close contact with suspected cases.
“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 commissioner said the public would be informed once laboratory results were available.
PRESS STATEMENT
NO CASE OF MPOX OUTBREAK IN BENUE STATE
The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has become aware of reports circulating on social media regarding a suspected Mpox outbreak at Tyokula Achihi Residence, Korinya, Konshisha Local Government Area.… pic.twitter.com/T0QQMpYkuK
— Benue State Government (@benuestategovt) July 25, 2026
