As of this writing, there are reportedly three cases of monkeypox in Flanders. Two clinically determined cases, as well as a high-risk contact with symptoms, according to our colleagues at the HLN.
For people infected with the virus, they will have to isolate themselves for 21 days. Monkeypox having a fairly long incubation period. On the other hand, high-risk contacts are not required to self-isolate. They still need to monitor their condition, looking for particular symptoms.
As a reminder, these are rashes on the face or other parts of the body, as well as flu-like symptoms. Namely, cough, fever, headache, body aches or swollen lymph nodes.
Several other cases have also been detected in recent days in Europe; in Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Sweden. They have even been identified in the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States.
It seems stable that the virus has a propensity to spread following sexual relations. “We are observing transmissions among men who have sex with men”, which is “new information that we must study properly to better understand the dynamics” of transmission, alerted the WHO. The Risk Assessment Group therefore considered it useful to launch an awareness campaign aimed at men who have sex with other men, as well as people who have sex with several partners. It is not a question of stigmatizing any community whatsoever, but on the eve of Belgian Pride (formerly Gay Pride), the RAG deemed it relevant to convey this message.
People who have had several sexual contacts are particularly advised to be vigilant. If they have a suspicious rash, they should go to an emergency department, informed about the procedure.
The risk for the general population is low, reassures Vandenbroucke
Monkeypox, of which 3 cases have been identified in Belgium – all in Flanders -, presents « a low risk for the general population », assured Friday the Minister of Health, Frank Vandenbroucke, in a press release. According to the latter, transmission occurs through very close physical contact with an infected person (through bodily fluids, among others) or contact with clothing or linen used by an infected person. Monkeypox can also be transmitted through direct contact during sexual intercourse.
After an incubation period that can range from 5 to 21 days, infected people usually show mild symptoms initially (fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue). A rash may appear, often on the face, then spread to the rest of the body. The rash changes and goes through different stages until a crust appears. Most people heal within a few weeks. Exceptionally, these symptoms may be more serious. But at this stage, the cases reported in Europe are mostly mild and there are no reported deaths.
In the event of a suspicious rash, it is currently advisable to contact the emergency department as soon as possible, which will eventually direct the patient to a hospital with greater expertise. Until monkeypox is ruled out or the infection is cured, close contact with other people should be avoided and no sexual contact is recommended.
Men who have sex with other men, or people who have multiple sex partners, need to be especially careful.