An outbreak of small pox, a virus infection transmitted from animals to humans has ravaged communities in Akwa Ibom state with 18 suspected cases reported. Experts warn that the number of those infected might be on the increase.
The worst hit communities are Ikot Akpaden, where Akwa Ibom State University has its main campus, Ikot Enin and Ndon, all in Mkpat Enin local government area of the state.
In 2018, similar cases of small pox were recorded in the same community, according to findings.
Dominic Ukpong, commissioner for health who confirmed the outbreak did not say whether the state government would seek the assistance of federal authorities to contain the disease which is fatal among infants.
He said the state government has activated its infectious control procedure to check the epidemic adding that it has been confined to the affected communities in the local government area.
According to him, since the disease is present in neighbouring states, Akwa Ibom is still at risk of recording new cases.
“In Nigeria, as at October 24, 93 suspected cases have been reported, 43 cases were confirmed. Only one death was reported and that was in Lagos state. Although, ten states were affected , Lagos, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River , Akwa Ibom, Rivers , Imo, Enugu and Anambra states with a total number of 93 cases in the country, 59 percent were from two states: Delta , 28 percent and Lagos, 26 percent,’’ he said.
Experts recommend hand washing with soap after contact with infected animals as well as a thorough cooking of all animal products before eating and avoiding contact with any material that has been in contact with a sick animal.
ANIEFIOK UDONQUAK, Uyo
