Monkey pox: A confirmed case treated at the Kinshasa General Reference Hospital
In a recent announcement, the director of the national monkey pox control program in the Democratic Republic of the Congo confirmed that a case of monkey pox, also known as monkeypox, has been identified at the General Hospital of Kinshasa reference (HGRK). The patient, a man in his thirties, arrived in Kinshasa from the town of Inongo, located in the province of Mai-Ndombe.
According to Dr. Shongo Lushima, director of the national monkey pox program, the patient’s condition is currently stable and he is being cared for by a specialized medical team. In addition, about fifty people who have been in contact with the patient, including members of the medical profession, are also placed under surveillance.
At the same time, a woman who traveled in the same boat as the confirmed case and who gave birth at the Bumbu maternity ward, is also being transferred to the Kinshasa General Reference Hospital. She has signs similar to monkey pox, which requires further medical evaluation.
The director of the national monkey pox control program reminds the population not to panic, but to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases to the nearest health centre. He insists on the importance of isolating the patient and avoiding any physical contact with him or his soiled objects.
The country’s health authorities have already put measures in place to contain the situation. People with suspicious symptoms are encouraged to go to the Kinshasa General Reference Hospital for appropriate care.
Monkey pox is a viral disease similar to smallpox, but less severe. It is mainly transmitted by direct contact with infected animals, particularly primates. Symptoms include fever, rash, and muscle aches. Implementing preventive measures such as hand hygiene and isolation of suspected cases is essential to prevent the spread of the disease.
In conclusion, the confirmation of a case of monkey pox at the Kinshasa General Reference Hospital underlines the importance of vigilance and collaboration between health professionals and the population