- Monkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, and was first identified in laboratory monkeys, hence its name. The virus in Nigeria broke out on 22nd of September, 2017 in Bayelsa State.
- So far, 31 suspected cases of the monkeypox virus have been recorded in seven states of Bayelsa, Rivers, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Ogun and Cross River states.
- They remain SUSPECTED CASES, it is unlikely that many of the suspected cases are actually monkeypox, but all are being investigated.
- Samples had been collected for laboratory confirmation and results are yet to return.
- All the suspected cases are currently receiving appropriate medical care, and the patients are all IMPROVING CLINICALLY in their various states
- The symptoms in humans are similar to those seen in smallpox patients, but much less severe and with a low fatality rate. They include fever, headache, body pain, malaise, lymphadenopathy (enlargement of glands), sore throat, the characteristic generalized vesicular rash. The rashes might last between two to four weeks. Monkeypox is self-limiting, which means patients tend to recover with time. .
- Transmission is via contact with infected animal, human, or contaminated materials.
- Control measures include isolation of suspected or confirmed cases, strict adherence to universal precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, and use of personal protective equipment.
- The Federal Ministry of Health through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is supporting the affected States to ensure the outbreak is brought under control and to limit further spread. NCDC has activated an Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) to coordinate the outbreak investigation and response across the affected States.
- No deaths recorded yet. Nigerians are therefore advised to remain calm, avoid panic, self-medication and report any suspected case to the nearest health facility.
Source: The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC),
Abuja, Nigeria