The Edo State Ministry of Health has announced that eight people have tested positive for monkeypox in the state, urging residents to observe safety measures to prevent the spread of the virus and other infectious diseases in the state.
The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akoria Obehi, who revealed this to journalists in Benin City, said that the Ministry has increased surveillance and other activities to stop the spread of infectious disease.
She, however, said that all people who were infected with the disease have recovered.
Prof. Obehi said, “With the increase in the number of confirmed cases of monkeypox in Edo, it is important to warn about the health risks that the virus poses and remind residents to be careful and follow safety measures.”
The Commissioner listed symptoms of Monkeypox to include fever, headache, weakness of the body, sore throat, and swelling of glands under the jaw and in the neck.
“It can also cause a rash on the face, palms, soles of the feet, genitals, and other parts of the body, which can look solid or fluid-filled at the beginning and can appear within two to three weeks after infection, depending on the health status of the person.”
She advised on measures to prevent the disease, saying, “The virus can spread 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.”
The Commissioner also advised: “Avoid contact with dead or live wild animals such as small mammals like rodents (rats, squirrels) and non-human primates (monkeys, apes).
“Cook all foods with animal meat well before eating; avoid unprotected contact with infected animals, humans, their beddings, and other linen; wash hands often, and use sanitizer when water is not available.”
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to stopping the outbreak and protecting the health of residents, the Edo Health Commissioner said that the State Disease Surveillance Team has been sent to control the outbreak in the state, along with the involvement of stakeholders across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas.
“If you notice any symptoms of monkeypox, please go to the nearest health facility for medical help or call the Acting State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (0806 059 3802),” Prof Akoria said.
