Belgium is facing an outbreak of Monkeypox virus. This illness was until now only endemic in West and Central Africa. Since May 2022, an exponential growth of new cases has been recorded in Europe. The clinical presentation is an influenza-like illness followed by a varioliform rash. Most patients will have mild to moderate symptoms but immunocompromised people, children and pregnant women can develop a severe illness. Mortality is low (3-10%) depending on the viral strain. The virus is transmitted mainly by prolonged skin contact and to a lesser extent by air (droplets). It is essential to implement preventive measures now (rapid screening, isolation of confirmed cases and high-risk contacts, public awareness) in order to contain this outbreak. A live attenuated vaccine (Imvanex®), currently not very available, could be used for post-exposure prophylaxis of contact cases and to a greater extent, for pre-exposure prevention. Antiviral treatments (Brincidofovir and Tecorivimat) will also be available in the near future.
What is already known about the topic?
Monkeypox is now becoming a worldwide public health problem. The disease, which was primarily present in West and Center Africa, is presently spreading to the rest of the world, in regions where it was not primarily endemic, including Belgium.
What does this article bring up for us?
Belgium has only recently been confronted with new Monkeypox cases. In this article, we have discussed the diagnostic, as well as preventive and therapeutic management approaches, so as to help caregivers promptly implement appropriate measures in order to limit the disease spreading.
Key Words
Monkeypox virus, epidemic, zoonotic disease, maculopapular rash, genital lesions