The individual is a 29-year-old man with no history of travel to a country where the virus is circulating.

A thorough epidemiological investigation is being conducted by teams from Santé publique France and the ARS Ile-de-France, in collaboration with the physician treating this individual. People who have been in close contact with this patient are currently being identified. They will receive information from health authorities on the steps to take to limit the spread of the virus.

Since May 14, 2022, confirmed cases of Monkeypox infection with no direct link to travel in Central or West Africa have been reported in several European countries, the United Kingdom, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Italy, as well as in the United States and Canada. Suspected cases are currently being evaluated in many countries, and the situation is evolving rapidly.

In France, infections caused by orthopoxviruses, including Monkeypox, are subject to ongoing surveillance through the mandatory reporting system. Given the current alerts, surveillance of these infections has been strengthened by Santé publique France, and recommendations have been issued to healthcare professionals by the Ministry.

What are the symptoms?

Monkeypox infection begins with a fever, often high, accompanied by headaches, body aches, and fatigue. After about two days, a vesicular rash appears in a single outbreak, consisting of fluid-filled blisters that dry out, form scabs, and eventually heal. Itching is common. The blisters tend to concentrate on the face, the palms of the hands, and the soles of the feet. The mucous membranes are also affected, particularly in the mouth and genital area. The lymph nodes are swollen and painful, under the jaw and in the neck.
The incubation period for the disease can range from 5 to 21 days. The fever phase lasts about 1 to 3 days. The disease, which is generally mild, usually resolves on its own after 2 to 3 weeks.

How is it transmitted?

The Monkeypox virus can be transmitted through direct contact with skin lesions or mucous membranes of an infected person, as well as through droplets (saliva, sneezing, spittle, etc.). Infection can also occur through contact with the patient’s environment (bedding, clothing, dishes, bath towels, etc.). It is therefore important for patients to self-isolate for the entire duration of the illness (until the last scabs have fallen off, usually 3 weeks).