As Mpox cases re-emerge across parts of the country, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on Osun residents to intensify efforts to prevent the spread of the virus.
Speaking during a community awareness and engagement programme held in Osogbo, the state capital, at the weekend, WHO Technical Officer, Dr. Fatoki Basheer, warned that the successful containment of earlier cases does not mean the disease has been completely eradicated.
Basheer explained that the sensitisation programme, organised by the Osun State Government in partnership with WHO, was aimed at educating residents on the transmission and prevention of Mpox to reduce future infections.
He advised the public to avoid consuming bush meat, noting that it is one of the common sources of Mpox infection. He also urged residents to ensure that all foods are properly cooked before eating, warning that negligence has led to many preventable deaths.
“Osun has confirmed four cases of Mpox, two of which were in Osogbo. Although the state successfully contained them, many people now act as though the disease is gone,” Basheer said.
He emphasised the importance of continuous public education and good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing. According to him, Mpox can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or humans, and preventive measures must not be ignored.
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