Monkeypox virus has not only affected Nigeria but other countries in the world. The virus which is said to have originated form Africa has spread to other countries.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), monkeypox presents with fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes and may lead to a range of medical complications.

The virus was first identified in humans in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in a 9-month-old boy in the year, 1970.

The virus transmits to humans from infected animals, surfaces and through contact with an infected person.

Signs and symptoms

Monkeypox virus is transmitted from one person to another by close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding (WHO, 2022).

Symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, below are the symptoms of the virus;

A rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth.
The rash could be mistaken for pimples or blisters and it may be painful or itchy.

Fever
Chills
Swollen lymph nodes
Exhaustion
Muscle aches and backache
Headache
Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough).

How to prevent monkeypox

Avoid close or skin-to-skin contact with infected persons or persons with a suspicious rash.

Avoid contact with infected objects and materials.

Do not eat infected or sick animals especially monkeys, bush meat, rats and squirrels.

Hygiene; wash your hands regularly with soap or sanitize. Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.

Treatment

Although there is no specific treatment for monkeypox, vaccines and medicines used to treat smallpox are been used by health professionals.

Monkeypox and smallpox are similar, monkeypox is more mild and less fatal.

If you suspect that you have the virus, be sure to isolate yourself, wear a face mask and contact your doctor or you can visit the hospital and but be sure to wear a mask.

The Herald had reported that WHO was working with partners on renaming Monkeypox and its variants.

The health organization moved to put in place a mechanism to help share available vaccines, more equitably, as the need arises.

Global report of monkeypox

According to data made available by WHO of 9th August, 2022 a total of 29,833 cases of monkeypox have been  laboratory confirmed and 11 deaths have been reported.

This figure covers the global cases that have been reported.