Newsletter Update: Current Issue on Monkeypox 2024

Newsletter Update: Current Issue on Monkeypox 2024

• Health Education and Awareness
• July 31, 2024

Important Update: Monkeypox Outbreak and Prevention Measures

We hope this message finds you well. As part of our ongoing commitment to informing you about critical health issues, we are providing an important update on the current monkeypox situation.

Overview of Monkeypox:

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that primarily occurs in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa. The monkeypox virus causes it, similar to the virus that causes smallpox. While monkeypox is less severe than smallpox, it can still pose significant health risks.

Current Situation:

The Africa CDC has raised alarms about the persistent threat of monkeypox on the continent. According to Dr. Ahmed Ogwell, the Acting Director of Africa CDC, the situation remains critical, with a case fatality rate of 2.8%. The lack of access to vaccines exacerbates the challenge, making monkeypox a major health concern for many African countries.

Recent outbreaks of monkeypox have been reported in various regions, prompting increased vigilance and preventive measures globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) and national health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and guiding in managing and preventing the spread of the disease.

Symptoms and Transmission:

Monkeypox symptoms typically include:-

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches, backaches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills, and exhaustion, followed by a rash that progresses to pustules and scabs.

The virus spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus.

Preventive Measures:

• Avoid Close Contact: Minimize close contact with people showing symptoms of monkeypox, such as rashes or sores.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Use Protective Equipment: Healthcare workers should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when treating patients with suspected or confirmed monkeypox.
• Isolate Infected Individuals: Ensure that those infected with monkeypox are isolated to prevent further transmission..

What We Are Doing:

As an NGO operating nationwide, we are actively engaged in:

1. Raising awareness about monkeypox through community outreach programs.
2. Distributing informational materials to educate the public on symptoms and prevention.
3. Collaborating with healthcare providers and authorities to support surveillance and response efforts.

Stay Informed:

We encourage you to stay informed about monkeypox through reliable sources such as the WHO and your local health department. Our website will continue to provide updates and resources on this issue.

Your Support Matters:

Your support enables us to continue our vital work in public health education and disease prevention. Together, we can help protect our communities from health threats like monkeypox.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Best regards,

ITTK - Communication and Dissemination 

References:

1. World Health Organization (WHO) - Monkeypox
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Monkeypo