NCDC intensifies response as UK associates monkeypox with trip to Nigeria – Daily Trust

The Nigerian Center for Disease Control said that it had the ability to diagnose and respond effectively to monkeypox after Britain confirmed two cases of the disease in two patients, one of which was 39, between them having returned to Nigeria.
Monkeypox sparked public fear in September 2017 when the outbreak began.
In total, 262 suspected cases of monkeypox were reported in 26 states at the end of August.
Only 113 of the reported cases have been confirmed as monkeypox in 16 states, mainly south-south states.
Seven people have died of the disease so far.
NCDC CEO Chikwe Ihekweazu said the center was working with Public Health England, the UK's public health agency, to investigate the two reported cases. He also works with other partners, with monthly meetings to ensure coordination.
"In addition, NCDC recently met with stakeholders, including surveillance officers and case management physicians from all affected states, to review actions taken to date and develop strategies for strengthen the country's response ".
"The national reference laboratory in Abuja has the ability to test monkeypox cases with rapid response time.
"We therefore encourage any health worker who suspects a case of Monkeypox to contact his or her state epidemiology team for appropriate action.
The monkeypox virus spreads primarily from animals to humans and has symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, discomfort, swollen glands, sore throats and rashes.
It is spread through direct contact with infected animals or humans or contaminated materials.
"The virus does not spread easily between people and the risk of transmission to the general public is very low," said Ihekweazu.
Monkeypox is usually self-limiting, which means that patients tend to recover within a few weeks. However, patients need supportive and supportive care to recover.
Control measures include the isolation of suspected or confirmed cases, strict adherence to universal precautions, especially frequent washing of hands with soap and water and the use of personal protective equipment, said Ihekweazu.

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