Eight Cases Of Monkey Pox Confirmed In Edo

The Edo State Ministry of Health has revealed that eight persons had so far tested positive for monkeypox in the state.

This was disclosed by Prof. Akoria Obehi, the state’s Commissioner for Health, on Monday.

Confirming the results, Obehi noted that the ministry had ramped up surveillance and other activities to curb the spread of infectious diseases.

She urged residents to observe safety measures to reduce the spread of the virus and other infectious diseases in the state.

She, however, noted that all persons who were diagnosed with the disease had recovered.

“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.”