Uganda is on high alert following a monkeypox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The Ministry of Health has issued precautionary measures to prevent the virus from spreading. The government is working with international health organizations to monitor and control the situation. Read on to know symptoms and preventive measures to take.
Uganda On High Alert Over Monkeypox Outbreak In DR Congo; Symptoms And Preventive Measures (Image Credits: Stock)
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is similar to smallpox but generally less severe. It can spread from animals to humans and from person to person. The current outbreak has prompted neighbouring countries, including Uganda, to strengthen their surveillance and response strategies.
Monkeypox symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after exposure to the virus. The illness begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Within a few days, a rash develops, often starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses through several stages, from macules to papules, vesicles, pustules, and finally scabs.
Symptoms can also include swollen lymph nodes, back pain, and chills. While most cases resolve within two to four weeks, severe cases can occur, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.
Transmission and Risk Factors
As per research, monkeypox is primarily transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. Human-to-human transmission occurs through respiratory droplets, direct contact with body fluids or lesions, and indirect contact via contaminated materials such as bedding.
People living in or travelling to areas with confirmed monkeypox cases, those who handle animals that might be infected, and healthcare workers are at higher risk. In light of the recent outbreak in DR Congo, Ugandan authorities are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel to affected regions and to report any suspected cases immediately.
In response to the outbreak, the Ugandan Ministry of Health has issued several preventive measures to curb the potential spread of monkeypox. These include:
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public about monkeypox symptoms, transmission, and prevention through various media channels.
Enhanced Surveillance: Increasing surveillance at border points and within communities to detect and respond to any suspected cases promptly.
Travel Advisory: Advising against non-essential travel to areas affected by the monkeypox outbreak in DR Congo.
Hygiene Practices: Encouraging regular handwashing with soap and water, using hand sanitisers, and avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of monkeypox.
Safe Handling of Animals: Advising the public to avoid contact with wild animals, particularly those that are sick or found dead, and to cook all animal products thoroughly before consumption.