Reps summon Health Minister over outbreak of Monkey Pox

The House of Representatives has summoned the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, to explain the measures taken by the Federal Government to tackle the outbreak and spread of the Monkey pox, aside containing other viruses.

The invitation followed a motion moved by Rep. Diri Douye (Bayelsa-PDP) under matters of privilege.

Moving the motion, Douye expressed concern over the spread of the disease to other states in spite of concerted efforts by the Bayelsa State Government since its outbreak in Yenagoa.

He expressed worry that the outbreak of the disease was terrifying citizens since the first case was diagnosed involving an 11-year-old male patient on Sept. 22.

Douye said that 14 suspected cases were now at different stages of recovery, with 55 close contacts identified and being monitored as at Oct. 7.

The lawmaker urged the lower chamber to call on the Federal Government to provide funds and logistics to the state government to reach out to water-logged communities being threatened by the disease.

He further urged the House to commend Gov. Seriake Dickson for paying attention to the welfare of monkey pox patients.

The motion was unanimously adopted by members when it was put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Mr Yakubu Dogara.

Dogara, however, referred the matter to the House Committee on Health to investigate and report back within two weeks for further legislative action.