JERUSALEM: Israel confirmed its first case of monkeypox on Saturday, joining several European and North American countries in detecting the disease in parts of Africa.
A for Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv said a 30-year-old man, who had recently returned from Western Europe with symptoms of monkeypox, had tested positive for the virus.
The virus, which causes typical pustules but is rarely fatal, is endemic to parts of Central and West Africa.
In recent weeks, cases have been detected in Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Sweden, as well as the US, Canada and Australia, raising fears that the virus could spread.
Symptoms of the rare disease include fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, tiredness, and a chickenpox-like rash on the hands and face.
The virus can be transmitted through contact with skin sores or droplets from an infected person, as well as through shared items such as bedding or towels.
Switzerland has reported the first monkeypox case, working on more monkeypox guidance as cases rise – Senior Advisor.