In response to the outbreak of the Monkeypox disease, Bayelsa State Government has initiated a strategic plan to contain its spread within the state.
Speaking in Yenagoa, the Commissioner for Health, Seiyefa Brisibe, stated that the state has identified 83 suspected cases and confirmed five cases of the disease with no reported fatalities.
Brisibe highlighted that in light of the global increase in reported cases, Bayelsa has adopted a comprehensive response strategy focusing on surveillance, prevention, and community engagement.
A critical component of the strategy involves heightened case identification to swiftly detect, isolate, and manage individuals showing symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
The Ministry of Health is actively enhancing the skills of healthcare workers through extensive training programs aimed at improving their diagnostic, treatment, and prevention capabilities as the frontline defense.
Furthermore, Brisibe revealed that an extensive public awareness campaign has been launched on various platforms including radio, social media, and community discussions to educate residents on Monkeypox, its symptoms, transmission methods, and preventive measures.
To ensure the safety of healthcare workers and bolster response efforts, the state is procuring personal protective equipment for all healthcare facilities statewide.