By Isaac Unisa Kamara (Isaac UK)
It is not a mistake when Dr Ibrahim Bangura, a lover of his people, chose Jarrah Kawusu Konte as a frontliner in the awareness-raising campaign on monkeypox disease; Jarrah Kawusu Konte has proved an astute forerunner in the campaign about the deadly disease. While on his work, he told stakeholders in Fadugu, Kasunko Chiefdom, all about the preventive, proactive, and curative measures of curtailing the disease so that lives won’t be lost in the event of its outbreak.
One thing about the disease is that many of our people who are familiar with measles symptoms may mistake monkeypox for measles, as both symptoms seem similar. So without a thorough sensitisation, it could be fatal in the event of its outbreak. Thank you, Dr Ibrahim Bangura, and as well your able lieutenant, Jarrah Kawusu Konte, for early sensitisation, or public health education campaigns focused on preventing and managing the disease outbreaks, to offer several key advantages.
They can help reduce the spread of disease, minimise the impact of outbreaks, and improve overall public health. Early sensitisation can also facilitate quicker response times, allowing for more effective containment and treatment strategies. Let’s look at the following advantages:
Early detection and intervention: early sensitisation empowers individuals to recognise symptoms and seek timely medical care, breaking the chain of transmission and preventing further spread.
Community resilience: When populations are aware of potential risks and preventative measures, they are better equipped to respond to outbreaks and minimise their impact on their communities.
Reduced morbidity and mortality: By promoting early detection and treatment, sensitisation efforts can lead to fewer cases and deaths during an outbreak.
Faster response times: Public awareness campaigns can help mobilise communities and health authorities, allowing for quicker implementation of control measures.
Enhanced surveillance: Sensitisation efforts can encourage individuals to report suspected cases, leading to more comprehensive surveillance data and a better understanding of the outbreak.
Targeted interventions: By understanding the risk factors and transmission pathways, public health officials can tailor their interventions to effectively address the outbreak.
Improved health outcomes: Early sensitisation can contribute to a healthier population by reducing the risk of disease outbreaks and improving overall health literacy.
Economic savings: By preventing outbreaks and their associated healthcare costs, sensitisation efforts can lead to significant economic savings for individuals, communities, and healthcare systems.
Enhanced preparedness: Early sensitisation can be a crucial component of an overall disease outbreak preparedness plan, ensuring that communities are ready to respond to future challenges.
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