Resident doctors caution against eating undercooked bush meat due to M-pox concerns

The Association of Resident Doctors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (ARD-UITH) has advised against consuming undercooked bush meat to prevent the spread of the m-pox virus. Dr. Yusuf Muhammed, President of ARD-UITH, informed on Monday that people should also minimize contact with dead animals.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the m-pox outbreak in parts of Africa a public health emergency of international concern. The initial outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo resulted in at least 450 deaths, and the disease has since spread to Central and East Africa, Pakistan, and Sweden.

M-pox, caused by the Orthopoxvirus Monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease affecting both humans and animals. Symptoms include sore throat, itchy or painful rash, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. The disease spreads through close contact, including touching, kissing, or sexual activity, as well as via contaminated materials like bed sheets, clothing, and needles.

Dr. Muhammed noted that while m-pox is not new, recent warnings from WHO indicate that a new strain is emerging. This new strain may not be fully covered by existing antibodies, posing a significant threat. He advised the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspected cases to health agencies for proper investigation and contact tracing.

He also mentioned that the smallpox vaccine might offer some protection against m-pox, though its effectiveness against the new strain remains uncertain. The ARD-UITH is prepared to apply measures and responses learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to any potential m-pox outbreak.