A first case of infection with monkeypox has been confirmed in France, said the General Directorate of Health. The patient is a 29-year-old male from Île-de-France. As soon as his infection was suspected, he was treated and isolated at home due to lack of seriousness.
The health authorities said he had not traveled to a country where the virus was circulating. At the moment, cases have been detected in the UK (20 identified Friday midday), Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Italy, Canada and the United States.
A virus transmitted through direct contact
In a press release, the French Ministry of Solidarity and Health and Public Health states that “an in-depth epidemiological investigation is being carried out”. The people who have been in contact with the patient will be identified and informed of the measures to be taken to contain the spread of the virus.
Monkeypox, or monkeypox virus, is endemic to Central and West Africa. The virus circulates in animals (rodents and wild animals) and is sporadically transmitted to humans through contact. It is transmitted from person to person through direct contact with skin lesions or mucous membranes of a sick person, as well as through droplets. Contamination is also possible through contact with items such as bedding or clothing.
Symptoms in humans are sudden high fever accompanied by headache and body aches. After about two days, a rash appears and itching is common. The incubation period of the disease can range from five to 21 days. The generally benign disease usually heals spontaneously after 2 to 3 weeks. Those affected must respect isolation for the duration of the illness to avoid contagion.
In case of symptoms you must contact the Samu at 3 p.m. and it is recommended to isolate yourself while waiting for medical advice.