Bayelsa procures PPE to tackle monkeypox

Bayelsa State Government said on Friday that it is embarking on a strategic response framework to curtail the spread of the deadly viral Monkeypox disease in the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Seiyefa Brisibe, in a statement in Yenagoa said the state had reported 83 suspected cases and five confirmed cases of the disease without recording any deaths.

Brisibe, however, said due to the global surge in reported cases, Bayelsa “has implemented a multi-dimensional response strategy focusing on surveillance, prevention and community engagement.”

The key elements of the strategy include enhanced case detection aimed at rapidly identifying, isolating and managing suspected cases with symptoms such as fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes.

He said the Ministry of Health is building the capacity of health workers across the state by conducting extensive training programmes designed to enhance their diagnostic, treatment and prevention skills as a frontline defence.

Brisibe disclosed that the state had started a comprehensive campaign on radio, social media and community forums to educate residents about Mpox, its symptoms, mode of transmission and preventive measures.

He said the state is procuring personal protective equipment “throughout healthcare facilities in the state” to safeguard healthcare workers and support response efforts.

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