No cases of mpox (or monkey pox) have (yet) been detected on the national territory. But this epidemic is taken very seriously with the announcement by Gabriel Attal, Friday August 16, of the “state of maximum vigilance” on the French health system.
For the first time, cases have appeared outside the African continent (in Sweden and Pakistan specifically). The WHO even declared on Wednesday, August 14, a “international public health emergency” in the face of this viral disease which spreads from animals to humans but which is also transmitted through close physical contact with a person infected with the virus.
In France, it is first of all a question of raising awareness among people at risk, namely the French who go to countries where this virus is active. While spreading in France messages among the homosexual community (especially male). Prevention messages so that anyone with symptoms (fever, spots) can seek help immediately.
Preparing the French health system
Doctors are on alert to report suspected cases. The resigning head of government has also contacted the High Authority for Health (HAS) to see if there is reason to expand vaccination.
Because since the previous epidemic of mpox in France – nearly 5,000 cases recorded in 2022 – the vaccine is offered to people at risk (around 300 people per month are vaccinated).
As Matignon reminds us, if the risk of infection is considered low in Francesporadic cases will probably be expected. The national health system must therefore be prepared to detect, isolate, vaccinate and contain the virus, as was the case two years ago.
The editorial team recommends
Thanks to your RTL account, subscribe to the RTL info newsletter to follow all the news every day.
Read more
