According to the Edo State Ministry of Health, eight people have tested positive for monkeypox in the state thus far.
In order to stop the virus and other dangerous diseases from spreading throughout the state, it advised citizens to take safety precautions.
Prof. Akoria Obehi, the state's commissioner for health, revealed the information to reporters on Monday in Benin and stated that the ministry had increased monitoring and other operations to stop the spread of infectious diseases.
She did, however, point out that everyone who had the sickness 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 included fever, headache, generalised weakness, sore throat, and swelling of glands in the neck and under the jaw as signs of monkeypox.
“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.”
“Avoid contact with dead or live wild animals such as small mammals including rodents (rats, squirrels) and non-human primates (monkeys, apes).
“Thoroughly cook all foods containing animal meat before eating.
“Aavoid unprotected contact with infected animals, humans, their beddings, and other linen; wash hands regularly, and use sanitiser when water is not available.”
The state's disease monitoring team has been sent out to control the outbreak in the state, according to the Edo health commissioner, who reaffirmed the state's commitment to stopping the outbreak and safeguarding the health of its citizens.
Along with this, stakeholders from the state's 18 Local Government Areas were involved.
“If you suspect any symptoms of monkeypox, kindly visit the nearest health facility for medical attention or call the Acting State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (0806 059 3802),” Akoria advised.