Commissioner for Health in Osun State, Rafiu Isamotu says confirmatory test results for a suspected monkeypox case in the state was still being awaited.

Mr Isamotu said in Osogbo on Wednesday that the symptoms in the reported case had similar characteristics like that of monkeypox.

“It is not yet confirmed, though we think that the symptoms look so much like that of monkeypox.

“We need supplementary diagnosis to confirm it and by the end of the week, the result will be out,” he said.

Mr Isamotu appealed to residents of the state to be vigilant, avoid large gatherings, keep their environment clean and avoid contact with people with monkeypox symptoms.

The commissioner also advised residents of the state with unusual rash on their body to visit the nearest hospital for a test.

“We advise our people with headache, fever, joint pain and joint swelling to visit the nearest hospital, because these are some of the symptoms that usually accompany monkeypox.

“As for us in the ministry, our surveillance teams are set to respond to any outbreak,’’ he said. 

(NAN)