Monkeypox: Togo steps up epidemiological surveillance

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Extract from the article: In Togo, epidemiological surveillance is being stepped up by the public authorities to prevent the spread of monkeypox. The reinforced measures come at a time when the disease has been declared a public health emergency on a continental and internati

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In Togo, epidemiological surveillance is being stepped up by the public authorities to prevent the spread of monkeypox. The reinforced measures come at a time when the disease has been declared a public health emergency on a continental and international scale by the CDC Africa (Centres for Disease Control) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), due to an increase in many African countries, well beyond the DRC, a typical endemic focus for the viral disease.

No cases have yet been reported in the country, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Health on Thursday 15 August 2024. Monkeypox is a contagious viral disease that can infect people of any age.It is transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the blood, body fluids or skin lesions of infected animals. Human-to-human transmission can also occur through close contact with infected respiratory secretions or contaminated objects.

Surveillance measures have been stepped up in Togo, particularly at the country's entry points, to ensure early detection. The Ministry is urging people to take preventive measures, such as washing their hands regularly, protecting their nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and avoiding contact with the biological fluids of suspected cases.

«Monkeypox can be cured if it is detected and treated early in a healthcare center», said Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa, Minister for Health.

Between January 2022 and the end of July 2024, more than 37,000 cases and 1,400 deaths (case-fatality rate of 3.9%) from Mpox were reported in 15 African Union (AU) Member States, including South Africa, Cameroon and Ghana.

Elom AKAKPO