Edo State Ministry of Health has confirmed that eight persons tested positive for monkeypox in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the State’s Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akoria Obehi, who confirmed the incident on Monday, noted that all persons who were diagnosed with the disease had recovered.
She said the ministry has ramped up surveillance and other activities to curb the spread of infectious disease.
“Amid the rise in the number of confirmed cases of monkeypox in Edo, it has become imperative to warn on the health risks that the virus poses and reiterate the need for residents to be cautious and adhere to safety measures.”
The commissioner highlighted symptoms of monkeypox to include fever, headache, weakness of the body, sore throat, and enlargement of glands under the jaw and in the neck.
“It can also come with the appearance of a rash on the face, palms, soles of the feet, genitals, and other parts of the body, which can appear solid or fluid-filled at the onset.
“It can manifest within a period of two to three weeks following infection, depending on the health status of the individual.”
Obehi, who advised residents on measures to contain the disease, said: “The virus can be transmitted from infected animals and rodents such as rats, mice, squirrels, and even monkeys through contact with infected blood, body fluids, spots, blisters or scabs, and sharing of objects.”
“Avoid contact with dead or live wild animals such as small mammals including rodents (rats, squirrels) and non-human primates (monkeys, apes).
“Thoroughly cook all foods containing animal meat before eating.
“Avoid unprotected contact with infected animals, humans, their beddings, and other linen; wash hands regularly, and use sanitiser when water is not available.”
She further advised that “if you suspect any symptoms of monkeypox, kindly visit the nearest health facility for medical attention or call the Acting State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (0806 059 3802).”
