Monkeypox has been causing panic across Nigeria as a total of 46 suspected cases have been reported between January 1 and April 30, 2022.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, confirmed that 15 cases had been recorded in some States in the country.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) with symptoms similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
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Is Monkeypox contagious?
Monkeypox viruses can be transmitted through handling of infected animals (squirrels, primates and rodents), particularly through contact with blood or infectious body fluids, for example, through a bite. Infected meat can also be the cause.
Monkeypox symptoms
In humans, the symptoms of monkeypox are similar to but milder than the symptoms of smallpox. Monkeypox begins with fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion etc.
How to avoid Monkeypox
- Avoid contact with persons infected with the disease or suspected of the disease.
- Always practice good hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water after contact with animals or when caring for sick human relatives or soiled beddings.
- Avoid eating bush meats especially monkeys, squirrels, etc.
- Handle materials used by or to treat infected persons with care- e.g bedding clothes, and any other contaminated material.
- Go for regular checkup if you notice any of aforementioned symptoms
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