As Mpox continues to affect various regions in Nigeria, it is important to stay informed about the disease and the steps we can take to protect ourselves.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has on Monday reported a decline in suspected and confirmed cases across the country, signaling some progress in the fight against the disease.
However, caution remains necessary, especially since the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared Mpox a global health emergency due to its rapid spread across different countries.
The News Chronicle Spoke With Nurse Fikayo Lawal, a senior healthcare provider at Bola Tinubu Health Centre Akowonjo, Lagos to gain insights into the ongoing Mpox situation and learn how Nigerians can stay safe.
Question: Could you briefly explain what Mpox is and how it spreads?
Answer : Mpox is a viral disease similar to smallpox, though generally less severe. It’s primarily spread through close contact with an infected person or animal. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or the eyes, nose, or mouth. Human-to-human transmission occurs through respiratory droplets, direct contact with body fluids, or contact with contaminated objects, like bedding.
Question: What are the symptoms of Mpox that people should look out for?
Answer: Symptoms typically include fever, intense headache, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle aches, and intense fatigue. These symptoms are followed by a rash that usually starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash goes through different stages before forming scabs, which eventually fall off.
Question: How can Nigerians protect themselves and their families from Mpox?
Answer: First and foremost, avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of Mpox, especially those with rashes or skin lesions. Practice good hand hygiene by regularly washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus, like rodents or primates, particularly in areas where Mpox is known to occur. Also, ensure that any meat you consume is thoroughly cooked.
Question: What precautions should be taken if someone suspects they have been exposed to Mpox?
Answer: If you suspect you’ve been exposed, isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others. Seek medical advice as soon as possible, especially if you develop symptoms. Health facilities are equipped to handle such cases, and early detection can help manage the disease more effectively. It’s also crucial to notify anyone you may have come into contact with, so they can take precautions as well.
Question: How can healthcare workers protect themselves while caring for Mpox patients?
Answer: Healthcare workers should wear protective gear, including gloves, masks, and gowns, when handling patients or their bedding. Regular hand washing is critical, as well as ensuring that the environment is regularly sanitized. It’s also important to educate patients on how to isolate themselves and adhere to guidelines during their recovery.
Question : What should communities do to help prevent the spread of Mpox?**
Answer: Communities should promote awareness about the disease and encourage people to report symptoms early. Local health authorities should ensure that there are adequate facilities for isolating suspected cases and that healthcare workers are trained to manage these cases effectively. Community leaders can also play a role in dispelling myths and providing accurate information about Mpox.
Question : Are there any specific populations that are more at risk for severe Mpox?
Answer: While Mpox can affect anyone, certain groups, such as young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are more at risk of severe illness. It’s particularly important for these groups to take extra precautions and seek medical attention promptly if they suspect exposure.
Question: What role does vaccination play in controlling Mpox?
Answer: Vaccination is a key tool in controlling Mpox. Although the smallpox vaccine offers some protection against Mpox, there are also specific vaccines available that can prevent the disease. However, these vaccines may not be widely available, so public health measures and personal precautions remain crucial.
