Infectious Disease Pioneer: Dr. Dimie Ogoina’s Insights and Leadership in the Face of Mpox

Dr. Dimie Ogoina, a Nigerian infectious disease physician-scientist, played a pivotal role in drawing attention to a concerning evolution of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in Nigeria back in 2017. Despite initial reluctance from the global community to heed his warnings, Ogoina persisted in his efforts to document and publish data highlighting the potential for sexual transmission of Mpox. This information later proved crucial when a global Mpox outbreak unfolded in 2022, contributing significantly to the development of effective strategies for outbreak prevention and control.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Dimie Ogoina is a fervent advocate for global health equity. Emphasizing that Mpox is not a new disease, Dr. Dimie Ogoina asserts that earlier attention could have averted the widespread outbreak in 2022. His dedication to addressing this issue is reflected in his advocacy work, leadership roles, and ongoing research efforts.

Currently serving as a professor of medicine at Niger Delta University and holding the position of chief medical director at its teaching hospital, Dr. Dimie Ogoina has established himself as a respected figure in the field of infectious diseases. Additionally, he serves as the president of the Nigerian Infectious Diseases Society, further highlighting his commitment to advancing healthcare and preventing the escalation of infectious diseases in Nigeria and beyond.

Dr. Dimie Ogoina’s expertise and proactive stance underscore the importance of early detection and global collaboration in mitigating the impact of emerging infectious diseases. His contributions serve as a valuable lesson for the international community on the significance of heeding warnings from experts in the field of infectious diseases.