Iceland's first Monkeypox cases

Two Icelanders who recently visited Europe have monkeypox. Both are contagious, but not gravely sick, according to Vsir.

Initial test samples are being confirmed abroad, but the Directorate of Health is confident in the good findings. Chief Epidemiologist órólfur Gunason predicts more instances, but no outbreak.

Monkeypox symptoms may appear weeks after infection. Fever, chills, headache, and malaise are the early symptoms, followed by an itchy rash and enlarged lymph nodes. The Health Department advises anybody with pimples or sores on the genitals to see a doctor immediately.

Physical touch and respiratory droplets propagate the infection. It may also be transferred by inanimate items like clothes, towels, and beds.

Monkeypox isn't as contagious as COVID, and infection may be avoided. Rare but painful instances may cause scarring. To prevent transmission, avoid extended physical contact with strangers, especially overseas.

Those who may have been exposed to the virus should isolate for three weeks. Infected people must be alone for four weeks until their rash heals.

As of June 2, 780 cases of monkeypox were confirmed in 27 non-endemic countries. Britain, Spain, Portugal, Canada, and Germany have the most instances. 12 African nations have human or animal monkeypox.

Currently, Europe lacks a monkeypox vaccination. Two smallpox immunizations in the US may protect against monkeypox. The Health Directorate is aiming to make these vaccines accessible in Iceland, particularly for immunocompromised people and healthcare professionals.