Abia state records first case of deadly Monkeypox

Abia state commissioner for information, Prince Okey Kalu, on Monday, confirmed that the state has recorded its first case of Monkeypox around Isiala Ngwa environs.

He disclosed this during a press briefing on the outcome of the state Executive Council meeting, held yesterday in Umuahia.

Kanu stated that out of the 13 recorded in the state, only one tested positive, nine tested negative, while two were awaiting classification.

He, however, said that there was no casualty yet. He advised residents to maintain personal hygiene and keep social distancing. He said that a treatment centre had already been set up by the State Government at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, ABSUTH, Aba.

Adding her voice, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health Dr Agozi Azodo, highlighted the importance of personal hygiene in curtailing the spread of the deadly disease.

She also advised residents especially farmers to minimize contact with animals.

The former Director, Federal Ministry of Health, said the State Government was ready to deal with the possible outbreak of the disease, and asked residents to promptly report any suspected case.

The SA disclosed that the State Government had concluded arrangements to renovate and retrofit 200 primary health centres across the state in 100 days. The project according to her will commence in the first week of September and delivered before December.