Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus which was first identified in laboratory monkeys, hence the name. Natural hosts of the virus include rodents, pets, and primates. The virus is spread to humans through contact with infected animals. Monekypox occurs mainly in central and west Africa.

Symptoms
In humans, the disease is similar to smallpox, though not as severe. Early symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, swelling of lymph nodes, muscle pain, and lack of energy. Later, a skin rash develops with the face, palms and soles of the feet most affected. The rash ultimately crusts over and fades. Symptoms last between 14 to 21 days.

Mortality
According to WHO, fatalities from monkeypox has been less than 10%, and adults are more likely to recover than children.

Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for the monkeypox disease, though taking the smallpox vaccine can help in preventing infection. However, the smallpox vaccine is no longer available to the general public.

Cases in Nigeria
According to The National Centre for Disease Control, Abuja, 31 suspected cases have been recorded in seven states in Nigeria, namely Bayelsa, Rivers, Ekiti, Akwa-Ibom, Lagos, Ogun, and Cross River, with no recorded deaths.

Monkeypox in Lagos
At a news conference on Monday, 9th, the Lagos State commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, said that two suspected cases of Monkeypox have been recorded in the state, and the infected persons were being observed.
“Though no confirmed case has been recorded, there is need to sensitize members of the public and provide adequate information on measures for prevention and control of the disease in line with the policy of the State government,” he said.

Prevention measures
• Cook all animal meat and blood thoroughly before eating.
• Wear appropriate protective clothing when slaughtering animals or when handling sick animals.
• Avoid close physical contact with people or animals infected with the monkeypox virus.
• Wear protective equipment when taking care of people suspected to be infected.
• Practice good hygiene; wash your hands thoroughly after contact with infected humans or animals.

its like Nigeria has offended the animal kingdom...
bird flu, pig flu, ebola-bat, Ladas fever-rat, monkey pox-monkey... Issorite