First suspected case of monkeypox confirmed in Ecuador

The Ministry of Health reported that the first suspected case of monkeypox was registered in Ecuador. Minister Ximena Garzón indicated, on the morning of this Friday, May 27, 2022, that the patient is under observation and in confinement.

“Thanks to the epidemiological alert that we issued more than a week ago, we are carrying out the appropriate epidemiological fences,” said Garzón. An infectious disease doctor monitors the patient to confirm if it is this disease. The results of the exams would be ready the following week.

The first suspected case corresponds to a man who arrived in Quito from Africa and in recent days presented symptoms such as fever and skin lesions. The Ministry of Health believes that it is not related to the outbreak registered in Europe.

Minister Garzón added that the application of normal smallpox to avoid contagion of monkeypox is ruled out. While the specific treatment for this ailment is being developed, Ecuador acquired 1,000 diagnostic kits, which will arrive the following week.

Monkeypox is transmitted by secretion of saliva, blood, and fluids. People who have arrived in Ecuador from Africa or Europe and begin to have a fever, severe pain and skin rashes should go to the nearest health center.