What is monkeypox?

Kindly let me know what is Monkeypox? I also want to know if the disease has reached Nigeria

Sultan (by SMS)

Mpox (monkeypox) is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. Most people fully recover, but some get very sick. Anyone can get mpox. It spreads from contact with infected: persons, through touch, kissing, or s3x, animals, when hunting, skinning, or cooking them materials, such as contaminated sheets, clothes or needles pregnant persons, who may pass the virus on to their unborn baby.

If you have mpox. Tell anyone you have been close to recently. Stay at home until all scabs fall off and a new layer of skin forms. Cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask when around other people. Avoid physical contact. The monkeypox virus outbreak is of global concern. Hence, an adequate response and preparedness plan is of great importance.

Cases of Monkeypox were reported in several States in Nigeria in 2021; such states include Lagos, Rivers, Delta, Edo, Ogun, Bayelsa, and the Federal Capital Territory. The responses so far include diagnosis (genetic methods, phenotypic methods, immunological methods, and electron Microscopy methods), while treatment includes vaccination and the use of antivirals.

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