Belgium becomes first nation to introduce mandatory monkeypox quarantine

Belgium introduced the measures on Friday as the country saw the third case of monkeypox virus. The global cases of monkeypox are nearing 100.

 New Delhi: Belgium has become the first nation to introduce a mandatory 21-day quarantine for monkeypox patients as the cases of the virus start spreading across the globe. The disease has already been declared as an endemic in Africa.

Belgium introduced the measures on Friday as the country saw the third case of monkeypox virus. The global cases of monkeypox are nearing 100.

The compulsory measure of quarantine currently applies only to an individual who has confirmed infection. The people who had been in close contact with a infected person do not need to self-isolate themselves.

“Infected persons will have to go into contact isolation until the injuries have healed (they will receive concrete instructions about this from the treating doctor). High-risk contacts such as housemates and sexual partners are asked to self-monitor for symptoms for 21 days, taking into account the incubation period, and must not be quarantined. Contacts with pregnant women, children and immune-weakened persons are best avoided during this period.” said a version of the government announcement translated from Dutch.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdoms had said those who are more likely to catch the disease must confine themselves with self-isolation for 21-days. The order includes both household contact as well as a medical professional who has been subjected to contact with an infected patient.