Akwa Ibom records four confirmed cases of Monkeypox

Between January and August 2024, Akwa Ibom State has reported four confirmed cases of Monkeypox, according to Samuel S. Etuk, the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer at the State Ministry of Health.

The announcement was made during the Breakthrough ACTION-Nigeria’s Media Partnership Strengthening and Review Meeting held in Uyo.

Etuk disclosed that three of the affected individuals are male, with the cases occurring in the local government areas of Uyo, Nsit Ubium, and Onna. The ages of the victims are 2, 4, and 15 years, respectively.

“In Akwa Ibom, we have four confirmed cases, and those cases have been managed so far,” Etuk stated, highlighting the importance of preventive measures such as regular handwashing, seeking medical attention when symptoms appear, and avoiding self-medication.

He further explained that the Mpox virus can be transmitted from animals to humans and from human to human through direct contact with infected blood, body fluids, or lesions.

Given the lack of specific treatment for the virus, Etuk stressed the need for caution regarding physical contact and the importance of maintaining personal hygiene.

Etuk called on journalists to help spread awareness about Monkeypox, noting that their outreach can extend further than that of the health authorities.