8 Persons Test Positive For MonkeyPox In Edo State

According to the Edo State’s ministry of health, eight people in the state have tested positive for Monkeypox.

Prof. Akoria Obehi, the state’s commissioner for health, told reporters on Monday, July 25, that the Ministry has increased monitoring and other efforts to stop the infectious disease’s spread.

In order to stop the virus and other contagious diseases from spreading throughout the state, Obehi also urged citizens to follow and maintain safety measures.

According to the commissioner, symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, body aches, sore throats, and enlargement of the glands in the neck and under the jaw.

She said, “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.

“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 and can manifest within a period of two to three weeks following infection, depending on the health status of the individual.

“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.”

Obehi further disclosed that the State Disease Surveillance Team has been dispatched to control the outbreak in the state in an effort to stop it and safeguard the health of the people.

Furthermore, stakeholders from the state’s 18 Local Government Areas were also included.

Obehi said, “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).”