Ouagadougou - In response to the recent resurgence of monkeypox across Africa, Burkina Faso has proactively heightened surveillance in its health system despite having no confirmed cases to date. The nation's health ministry has escalated readiness across all levels of the healthcare infrastructure to ensure prompt detection and response to potential cases.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Lucien Robert Kargougou, circulated by AIB on Sunday evening, all health facilities in Burkina Faso are now on alert to disseminate and enforce guidelines specifically tailored to combat monkeypox. This action aims to facilitate the early detection of any suspected cases, enhancing the country's preparedness to manage the disease effectively.

The health ministry's press release detailed the symptoms of monkeypox, which include a distinctive rash (comprising pimples, bubbles, and blisters primarily appearing on the face, hands, and feet), fever, headaches, muscle and back pain, energy depletion, and swollen lymph nodes. It emphasized that the virus, which can transmit from infected animals to humans and between humans, generally follows a favorable course when properly treated.