As students return to Daystar University after the mid-year break, it’s important that we take steps to protect our community from potential health risks. One of the growing concerns globally, and in Africa in particular, is mpox (previously known as monkeypox). Mpox (monkeypox) is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus and can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated materials. While the university has yet to release an official statement, it starts with us—students—taking simple, proactive measures to stop the spread.
What is Mpox and How Does it Spread?
Mpox is a zoonosis, a disease that is transmitted from animals to humans, with cases often found close to tropical rainforests where there are animals that carry the virus. As of 18 August 2024, the WHO African Region has reported 17,947 suspected mpox cases, including 563 suspected deaths and 2,186 laboratory-confirmed cases, with 13 confirmed deaths across 12 countries since January 2024. [World Health Organization (WHO)]
The disease can also spread from humans to humans. It spreads through contact with bodily fluids, skin lesions, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces.
Anyone can get mpox and it spreads through various means;
- Direct contact with an infected person, such as touching, kissing, or engaging in sexual activity.
- Interaction with animals that carry the virus, such as during hunting or preparing wild game.
- Contaminated materials, like bedding, clothing, or needles.
- Pregnant individuals can also pass the virus to their unborn child.
Symptoms to watch out for
Mpox symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after exposure and can include:
- A painful rash that starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.
- Swollen lymph nodes, often accompanied by discomfort.
- Fever, muscle aches, and general fatigue.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act immediately to prevent further spread.
Steps We Can Take to Protect Ourselves and Others
- Stay Informed – Educating yourself about mpox is the first step in stopping its spread. Keep an eye out for symptoms and avoid close contact with anyone who may have been exposed.
- Promote Good Hygiene – Washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer can reduce the risk of infection. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Maintain Safe Interactions – Mpox spreads through close physical contact. Whether in social gatherings or classrooms, practice safe distancing when possible. If someone shows signs of illness, be cautious about sharing personal items like towels, bedding, or utensils.
- If You’re Infected, Protect Others – If you suspect you have mpox, inform those you’ve been in close contact with, and stay at home until all lesions have healed and a new layer of skin has formed. It’s essential to cover any visible sores and wear a mask around others to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
- Avoid Physical Contact with Animals – Mpox can spread through direct contact with infected animals. If you’ve traveled to areas near tropical rainforests or have come into contact with animals, be mindful and practice caution.
What to Do if You Have Symptoms
If you experience any symptoms, report them immediately to the university health services and avoid close contact with others. Follow guidelines by covering your lesions, wearing a well-fitting mask, and isolating until you’ve fully recovered.
Let’s Be a Part of the Solution. It’s up to us, as Daystar students, to play an active role in preventing a potential mpox outbreak. Simple actions like washing hands, staying informed, and being cautious about close contact can make a big difference. Together, we can ensure that campus remains a safe and healthy environment for everyone.
For more information, stay tuned to Home – Involvement for updates on health protocols and resources as we navigate this period responsibly. Let’s keep each other safe—it starts with us.