Title: Monkey Pox in the DRC: A warning against panic
Introduction :
A confirmed case of Monkey Pox, also known as monkey pox, was recently reported in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. The patient, a man in his thirties, is from the town of Inongo, in the province of Mai-Ndombe. The director of the national Monkey Pox program, Dr Shongo Lushima, said the patient was currently undergoing treatment at the Kinshasa General Reference Hospital (HGRK) and his condition was stable. However, surveillance measures are in place for the patient’s contacts to contain the spread of the disease.
Context and symptoms of Monkey Pox:
Monkey Pox is a viral disease that is spread mainly from animals, especially monkeys and rodents. It is characterized by rashes similar to those of smallpox, accompanied by fever, headache and muscle aches. Although Monkey Pox is rarely fatal, it can be highly contagious between humans, especially during the rash period.
Preventive measures and call for the collaboration of the population:
Dr. Shongo Lushima reminds people to avoid physical contact with people with Monkey Pox, as well as their soiled objects or droppings. He insists that only a family member should be assigned to care for the patient and take him to hospital to prevent a wider spread of the disease. It also encourages the population to report any suspected cases to a local health center or to the HGRK, in order to break the chain of transmission.
Response and support:
The National Monkey Pox Control Program is implementing response measures to contain the spread of the disease. Teams are in charge of monitoring confirmed patient contacts and referring suspected cases to KGH for proper management. Information and training are also provided to health structures to strengthen their capacity to detect and respond to Monkey Pox cases.
Conclusion :
Although the confirmation of a Monkey Pox case in Kinshasa is concerning, it is important not to panic. By following preventive measures and collaborating with health authorities, it is possible to contain the spread of the disease. Public awareness is essential to quickly report suspected cases and facilitate early treatment. By working together, we can deal with this situation and ensure everyone’s health and safety