Faced with the rapid spread of mpox in Central Africa, the WHO has declared an international health emergency. In France, no cases of clade I have yet been reported. The Ministry of Labor and Health recommends a 3-week quarantine in the event of symptoms to limit the spread of the virus.
The mpox is a contagious disease that causes a rash, often accompanied by fever and swollen glands. The disease is spread by contact with the lesions of a sick person or with contaminated objects. It usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.
Recommendations to follow as soon as symptoms appear
As soon as the first symptoms appear, it is essential to see a health professional. The patient must take precautions by isolating himself. During medical appointments, wounds must be covered. barrier gestures must be followed to the letter: mask, frequent hand cleaning, and eliminating all human contact.
People with mpox must remain confined at home for 21 days from the onset of the first symptoms, unless their state of health requires hospital treatment.
This 3-week period should be extended if the skin or mucous membrane lesions have not completely healed at the end of the period.
If strict isolation is not possible, it is necessary to limit their social interactions to outdoor activities without sharing equipment and without physical contact.
Avoid all contact with the outside world
Teleworking is mandatory for about twenty days for people affected by the disease. If remote working is not feasible, the patient must go to sick leave. He must not exchange clothes with other people or share his household linen. Dishes and bedding must be dedicated exclusively to him.
For necessary outings such as shopping or a short walk, patients are required to wear clothing that covers the wounds. If a rash appears on the fingers, it is important to wear gloves. Infected people should inform those around them of the risk of transmission and encourage them to monitor for symptoms.
To prevent the spread of the virus, it is important to put the scabs in a closed garbage bag. Any worsening of symptoms must be reported immediately to SAMU.
To eliminate any risk of contamination, it is recommended to carefully disinfect your home after isolation.