First monkeypox case in Switzerland

Pixabay (c) minka2507

Switzerland’s first case of monkeypox has been confirmed. The Federal Health Office says it’s a middle-aged man living in Bern.

It’s being reported the man had recently returned from abroad. 

The health office says his condition is being closely monitored and anyone he may have had contact with is being tracked down. 
Doctors say he’s doing well.

Although most cases are mild – it can lead to the deaths of 11% of those infected, especially in those under 16 years old.  

Despite the name, monkeys are not the main vector of the disease – but rodents. 

It’s mainly found in west and central Africa and was first detected in 1970. 

It can be passed to others – but only by close physical contact.
 

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