© Koaci.com – Wednesday, September 11, 2024 – 10:08 p.m.
As part of the fight against monkeypox or Mpox, a monitoring committee was held in the presence of the Minister of Health, Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage, this Wednesday, September 11, 2024. During this meeting, an update on the situation was given.
Since the outbreak was declared in the country, the current situation is as follows: 49 confirmed cases, 43 of which have recovered and 5 confirmed cases are currently being treated.
“We currently note the absence of serious cases in hospital. The 5 cases are distributed in 4 health districts, notably 2 cases in M’Bahiakro, 1 case in Yopougon Ouest Songon, 1 case in Méagui and 1 case in Zouan-Hounien”, specifies the press release from the monitoring committee signed by Minister Pierre N’gou Dimba.
One death is to be noted. The press release specifies that the death occurred in a patient with risk factors for severity.
“We are seeing a continuous decline in cases, which confirms that the disease is under control. It is important to recall the particular case of the Dianra Health District, which was the most affected with 11 confirmed cases. The efforts of the Ministry of Health teams and the good collaboration of local authorities and the population have made it possible to control the epidemic in the Dianra health district. The current situation shows that all confirmed cases have recovered and are out of isolation. Contact tracing is continuing and should end on September 20, 2024,” the statement reads.
Monkeypox is a viral disease transmitted by rodents. It can be transmitted from person to person through contact with sick individuals.
However, if detected early and treated, it can be cured with few after-effects.
This is why the Ministry of Health recommends that the entire population observe preventive measures, in particular, avoid handling rodents (rats, squirrels, agoutis, etc.), avoid contact with sick people, suspected cases and their soiled objects, isolate the sick person at home or in hospital, wear personal protective equipment to care for the sick person, and wash your hands regularly with soap and water after any contact.
The Ministry of Health, Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage reassures the population that the reported cases are sporadic without a real localized outbreak.
“The competent services are equipped to detect, diagnose and treat any new case. The Ministry of Health recommends that the population consult the nearest health center as quickly as possible in the event of any case of fever and/or rash,” the press release states.