The Abia State Government has confirmed its first case of Monkeypox in the state.
This was revealed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, following the state’s executive council meeting on Monday.
Kanu reported that out of 13 suspected cases, one tested positive, nine were negative, and three are yet to be confirmed, with no deaths reported.
He added that the confirmed case was in Isialangwa, and the state has established treatment centers, including one at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, with more centers expected to open soon.
The Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Ngozi Azodo, highlighted that the state government has established a collaborative effort between the Ministries of Health, Environment, and Public Utilities. She noted that a steering committee on infectious diseases has been formed and that the state has aligned with the Federal Government’s “One-Health” policy.
Dr. Azodo emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities and maintaining high surveillance. She urged citizens to practice good hygiene, limit contact with animals, and avoid individuals with suspected cases of infection.
Additionally, she announced that the state Ministry of Health has finalized plans to deliver 200 Primary Healthcare Centres within the next 100 days.
Dr. Azodo described the initiative as a “bold step” by the ministry, stating that construction will commence in the first week of September, with the delivery of the healthcare centers scheduled to begin in December as a “Christmas gift” to the people of Abia.
