The Abia State Government has confirmed its first case of monkeypox in the state, according to Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu.
In a press briefing on the outcome of the state Executive Council meeting in Umuahia, Kanu revealed that the confirmed case occurred in the Isiala Ngwa area.
Out of 13 cases reported, only one tested positive, nine were negative, and two are awaiting classification. Thankfully, there have been no casualties reported.
Residents are advised to maintain personal hygiene and practice social distancing.
A treatment center has been established at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) in Aba to manage any cases.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Agozi Azodo, empasised, “Regular personal hygiene is the best way to protect oneself” from contracting the viral disease.
She also urged residents, particularly farmers, to minimize contact with animals.
Dr. Azodo, a former Director at the Federal Ministry of Health, assured the public that the State Government is prepared to handle a potential outbreak. She urged residents to report any suspected cases promptly.
Meanwhile, the State Government plans to renovate and upgrade 200 primary health centers across the state within 100 days, starting in early September and completing by December.
This initiative is part of the ongoing transformation of Abia’s health sector.
