The Benue State Ministry of Health and Human Services has deployed an emergency response team to Korinya, a community in Konshisha Local Government Area, following reports of a potential Mpox outbreak affecting local residents.
​The investigation was triggered on Saturday, July 25, 2026, after community spokesperson Shadrach Mtsor issued an urgent distress call on behalf of the Tyokula Achihi Residence along Km 2 Vandeikya Road. According to Mtsor, several residents, primarily young adults working and living within the same premises have presented with high fever, body weakness, and severe blister-like skin lesions.
The community appealed directly to state authorities, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and international partners like the World Health Organization (WHO) for urgent medical aid, diagnostic support, and isolation facilities.
​Responding to the public alarm, Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, confirmed that the ministry immediately activated its public health surveillance network.
​”Our Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for Konshisha LGA is already on the ground alongside state epidemiologists,” Dr. Ogwuche stated. “Patient samples are being collected for rapid laboratory testing to determine the exact cause of the symptoms.”
​While acknowledging the community’s concern, health officials urged the public to remain calm, noting that no cases of Mpox have been officially confirmed in the area yet. The ministry advised anyone exhibiting unusual skin rashes or fever to isolate immediately and contact the nearest healthcare center while awaiting the official laboratory results.
