_Mpox Outbreak: Cross River Confirms Two New Cases, Totals Five in Calabar Municipality_

_Mpox Outbreak: Cross River Confirms Two New Cases, Totals Five in Calabar Municipality_

The Cross River State government has confirmed two additional mpox cases in Calabar Municipality, bringing the total number of cases in the area to five. Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Ekpo Bassey, disclosed this information during an interview with journalists in Calabar on Friday.

Mpox, a zoonotic disease, is caused by a virus transmitted from infected animals, primarily rodents, and can spread person-to-person. The state surveillance team detected the new cases on Monday, October 21, and sent samples to the National Reference Hospital in Abuja for confirmation. The results were received on Thursday, October 24, confirming the cases.

The two new cases involve an 18-year-old University of Calabar student and an infant from the Ikot Ekpo area. Notably, the infant's parents do not exhibit symptoms, and investigations are ongoing to determine the transmission source. Previous cases were reported in Okoshe, Obudu Local Government Area.

According to Bassey, both cases are stable, and health officials are monitoring them closely. "We are also trying to carry out our sensitisation and infection control to prevent the disease from spreading," he added.

The state government, in collaboration with the National Mpox Response Team, has visited traditional rulers in Calabar to enlighten them and their subjects on the issue. This effort aims to promote awareness and prevent further transmission.

Residents are advised to avoid consuming undercooked bush meat and maintain high personal hygiene. Bassey emphasized the importance of proper hygiene practices, stating, "We need to wait for 21 days because the infection incubation period is between 21 and 25 days."

Health officials are monitoring all individuals who had contact with the confirmed cases. The state government is working to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.

The mpox outbreak has raised concerns across the state, and the government is taking proactive measures to address the situation. Bassey assured that the situation is under control and urged residents to remain calm.

As the situation unfolds, the Cross River State government will continue to provide updates and guidance to the public. The national health authorities are also closely monitoring the situation.

In Nigeria, mpox cases have been reported in several states, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and awareness. The federal government has activated emergency response measures to combat the outbreak.

Globally, mpox has become a significant public health concern, with cases reported in multiple countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines for prevention, detection, and response.

Stay informed about the latest developments on the mpox outbreak in Cross River State and nationwide.