The Ministry of Health (MoH) has raised alarm over a potential Mpox outbreak in schools after reopening, with the country’s recorded cases now at 33.
Suspected Mpox samples are tested at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) and other partner laboratories, with 379 samples having undergone testing, of which 33 have tested positive.
In a statement released on Friday, January 17, the MoH emphasized that children face a heightened risk of severe illness from Mpox due to their underdeveloped immune systems, particularly with schools now reopened.
“With the opening of schools across the Republic, we wish to re-emphasize that children are at heightened risk of severe illness from Mpox due to their underdeveloped immune systems,” read part of the statement.
To combat the potential spread, the Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is stepping up health education and preventive measures in schools.
“In view of this, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is enhancing school health education and other health measures in schools to prevent the spread of Mpox disease in these learning institutions,” the statement added.
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3 Guidelines for Schools to Prevent Spread Mpox
To prevent and control Mpox spread in schools, the Ministry of Health has recommended three sets of guidelines for schools to follow.
These include promoting hygiene and sanitation, recognizing symptoms of Mpox and maintaining safe practices.
- Promoting Hygiene and Sanitation
Students and staff are encouraged to frequently wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after touching shared surfaces or engaging in physical activities.
Schools are advised to implement infection prevention and control thorough cleaning and disinfecting protocols for classrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
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Recognizing Symptoms of Mpox
- Mpox symptoms may include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and general fatigue. The Ministry advises that all school personnel be trained to identify these symptoms and take appropriate action if they suspect a case.
- Any individual displaying symptoms of mpox should be referred to a healthcare facility for testing and should refrain from attending school until cleared by a doctor.
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- Maintaining Safe Practices
While physical distancing is no longer mandatory, schools are encouraged to keep classrooms well-ventilated and ensure that students are not crowded in any area.
Schools should ensure that large gatherings such as assemblies and sporting events adhere to health and safety guidelines.
MoH Curbing the Virus Outbreak
To accelerate the response to the outbreak in affected counties, the Ministry, in collaboration with the County Governments and partners, has enhanced surveillance through active case search, and contact listing.
Others include tracing, investigation, and symptomatic management of confirmed cases, including offering mental health and psychosocial support to infected and affected persons.
Additionally, risk communication and community engagement efforts are ongoing and are focused on educating the public about Mpox prevention and control measures.
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