In a statement to MAP, Mr. Himdi established three levels of the disease which relate to suspected, probable and confirmed cases, stressing that suspected cases do not pose any problem, neither for Morocco nor in the world.
“Monkey pox has been a known disease for more than 70 years and there are many data available on the routes of its transmission,” noted the researcher, explaining that the disease is transmitted only in the event of close contact with an infected person, exchanging clothes or using the same linens and food in a common area.
In addition, Mr. Himdi considered that the detection of suspected cases in Morocco “does not require imposing restrictions, reversing the easing of health measures and banning flights and travel”, however calling for the caution and vigilance despite the many data available on this disease.
In this regard, the researcher pointed out that the question that intrigues scientists concerns the reasons behind the rise in the number of cases today following they were limited in Africa, especially that they are transmitted only rarely through travel since the continent.
Regarding the symptoms of monkeypox, Mr. Himdi explained that they are fever, pain in the head, joints and muscles and feeling tired, adding that following three days, vesicles and skin lesions appear, in addition to swelling of the lymph nodes.
He said the line ministry has sent a note to doctors regarding these symptoms, stressing the importance of respecting preventive measures such as hand hygiene, social distancing and not sharing personal items with others.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare announced on Monday that three suspected cases of monkeypox have been registered in Morocco, but no cases have been confirmed.
