Dear Students, Parents, and Staff,
We’d like to provide important information on MPox (formerly known as monkeypox), a viral illness that has been spreading in some Countries. On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared MPox a global health emergency due to its rapid spread across multiple countries. While Namibia has not recorded any cases so far, awareness and precaution are key to keeping everyone safe and healthy.
What is MPox?MPox is a contagious illness caused by the monkeypox virus. It can spread through close contact, including skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and touching contaminated surfaces or items.
Symptoms of MPox:
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Swollen lymph nodes
Rash or sores, particularly on the face, hands, or body
Once the fever breaks, a rash can develop, often starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, most commonly the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash, which can be extremely itchy or painful, goes through several stages before forming a scab, which eventually falls off. In some cases, the lesions can cause scarring.
The incubation period for MPox can range from 5 to 21 days. The febrile stage of illness lasts 1 to 3 days and includes symptoms such as fever, intense headache, swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), back pain, muscle aches (myalgia), and extreme fatigue (asthenia). This is followed by the skin eruption stage, which lasts 2 to 4 weeks. During this stage, lesions evolve through several phases:
Macules (flat-based lesions)
Papules (raised, firm, and painful lesions)
Vesicles (fluid-filled lesions)
Pustules (pus-filled lesions)
Finally, the lesions form scabs or crusts, which eventually fall off.
Most infections clear up on their own, lasting between 14 and 21 days, but severe cases can involve widespread lesions and complications, especially in vulnerable areas like the mouth, eyes, and genitals. In some serious cases, lesions may spread across the entire body, particularly affecting the mouth, eyes, and genitals.
How to Prevent MPox:
Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
Avoid close contact with individuals who show symptoms of MPox.
Do not share personal items like towels or utensils.
If you feel unwell or develop a rash, stay home and contact a healthcare provider.
What to Do If You Suspect MPox:
If you or your child develops symptoms, please consult a healthcare provider for advice. While MPox can be uncomfortable, most cases resolve with time and care. Early identification and isolation are key to preventing the spread.
Let’s continue to work together to maintain a healthy and safe school environment. For more information, visit
Stay Safe!
Susan
School Nurse
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