Since May 2022 Monkeypox have been reported in many different countries.
Timely testing with PCR is key for management and public health control measures.
Presentation:Typically consists of a short prodrome , then progressive development of rash and lesions.
Lesions are often in the genital region including the perianal and anal regions.
What else can it be : – Herpes Simplex virus or Varicella zoster virus or Molluscum Contagiosum.
Nearly all cases have been in the context of close intimate sexual contact.
If rash /lesions present: swab 2-3 lesions per area, deroof vesicles.
In addition to lesion swabs do oropharyngeal and rectal swabs – if symptomatic proctitis.
If no skin lesions – then do an oropharyngeal and a rectal swab.
Testing is NOT recommended for individuals Without symptoms even if a close contact.
While waiting for a result (should not take much longer than 24 hours), lesions should be covered and avoid sharing contaminated objects. Practise excellent hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene – (wear a mask in public). If negative these measures can be discontinued.
