Posted by Dr Michelle Wright
Welcome to another Health Matters with me, Dr Michelle Wright – British-trained GP and director of HealthFirst.
Today, an important health update: mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. The first of two shows, part 2 coming next week.
What is mpox exactly?
Well, it’s a virus that’s part of the orthopoxvirus family and there have been two mpox clades identified so far – these are sub-species if you like:
- Clade I – at the moment, spreading in Africa
- And Clade II – the known variant that has been seen in Switzerland and Europe
Because of the spread of cases in Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern and is keeping a very close eye on the situation.
How is mpox spread?
It’s spread through direct skin or mucous membrane contact with an infected person, particularly during sexual activity. It can also be spread through respiratory secretions, bodily fluids, and even contact with scabs.
Symptoms can show up anywhere between 5 to 21 days after contact. And they range from just a mild skin rash to more flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue and sore throat.
In the genital and anal areas, symptoms may include pain and inflammation.
Going back to the skin rash – this is typically blister-like in appearance – with clear fluid initially, turning white over time, before the blisters crust and fall off. The blisters can be painful or itchy and can be anywhere on the body – face, mouth, arms, legs, torso and genital area.
It’s important to know that mpox is contagious from the moment symptoms appear until the last scabs have fallen off.
Now, if you think you may have mpox, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible for correct diagnosis and treatment. Antiviral therapy may be prescribed in severe cases – and we do have this treatment available in Switzerland.
You should avoid close skin contact with others and follow the instructions of your doctor and cantonal authorities.
It’s important to note that Clade II, the variant we’re most familiar with in Switzerland and Europe, is still only causing sporadic cases. The broader population is at low risk, but certain groups – especially men who have sex with men and trans people with multiple partners – are more likely to be affected.
The Swiss Federal Office of Public Health are keeping a close eye on the situation, are monitoring for any cases of Clade I infection, and will update their recommendations accordingly.
What can you do to protect yourself?
If you think you are at increased risk, consider vaccination. There is a highly effective vaccine available here in Switzerland, not just for Clade II but also for the new Clade I variant found in Africa. It’s recommended for people in high-risk groups or anyone who may have been exposed to the virus.
If you think you’ve had contact with someone infected with mpox, a post-exposure vaccination can be administered within four to fourteen days after exposure.
Your health insurance will cover the cost of the vaccine, and each of the Cantonal Health authorities has information on where the vaccine is available.
There are currently no travel restrictions for people travelling to Africa but tune in next time when I’ll discuss in more detail about this.
