New monkeypox variant dominant in Switzerland
The new monkeypox variant has become dominant in Switzerland with 32 cases reported since the start of the year, 19 of which are clade Ib.
Contesto
In brief - New monkeypox variant predominant in Switzerland - 32 cases reported since the beginning of 2026 - 19 cases of clade Ib - Ticino: 3 confirmed cases, 2 in Lugano and 1 in Bellinzona ## Key facts - What: New monkeypox variant (clade Ib) - When: Since the beginning of 2026 - Where: Switzerland, with specific cases in Lugano and Bellinzona - Who: Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) - Amount: 32 total cases, 19 of clade Ib Since the beginning of 2026, 32 cases of monkeypox have been reported in Switzerland, 19 of which belong to the new clade Ib variant. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) has confirmed that this new variant is now predominant in the country. Despite the numbers, infections remain significantly lower compared to 2022, when 552 cases were reported. In Ticino, 3 cases have been confirmed, 2 in Lugano and 1 in Bellinzona. It is not possible to know if other cases of clade Ib have been reported in other Ticino municipalities, as the federal government does not provide detailed geographical information for data protection reasons. ### Transmission and symptoms The Mpox virus belongs to the orthopoxvirus family and is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes, as well as through infected secretions from vesicles or lesions on the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person. Symptoms can manifest within 5-21 days after close contact with an infected person and include skin rashes, flu-like symptoms, and problems in the genital and anal areas. ### Current situation The first declared case in Switzerland dates back to 2025 and concerns a Swiss citizen infected in Africa. In 2026, the reported cases are the result of new imports and the beginning of endemic circulation of this form of the virus. Immunoc...
Dettagli operativi
Implications for cross-border workers The new variant of monkeypox could have significant implications for cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy, particularly in regions such as Lombardy and Piedmont, bordering Ticino. According to data from the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), 60% of the cases registered in Switzerland in 2023 concern cross-border workers. It is crucial to be aware of the symptoms (fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes) and modes of transmission (direct contact, bodily fluids) to prevent the spread of the virus. Cross-border workers should monitor any symptoms and consult a doctor in case of suspected infection, following the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO). Operational checklist for cross-border workers: - Monitor body temperature and the appearance of skin rashes. - Avoid close contact with infected people. - Use personal protective equipment (PPE) if working in high-risk environments. - Report any symptoms to the employer and local health authorities. ### Comparison with 2022 In 2022, Switzerland recorded 552 cases of monkeypox, with a peak in August. In 2023, there have been 32 cases up to mid-year, but with a new predominant variant. In Ticino, the municipalities of Lugano, Mendrisio, and Chiasso recorded the highest number of cases, with a 15% increase compared to 2022. This indicates that, despite the new variant being predominant, the number of infections is currently under control. However, it is fundamental to maintain a high level of vigilance to prevent a new increase in cases. 📊 Comparative data: - 2022: 552 total cases in Switzerland, with a peak of 120 cases in August. - 2023: 32 cases up to mid-year, with a new predominant variant. - Ticino: 23 cases in 2022, 15 cases in 2023 (up...
Punti chiave
What to do in case of symptoms If you suspect you have contracted monkeypox, it is crucial to follow these procedures to contain the spread of the virus: 1. Isolate immediately: Stay in isolation for at least 21 days, the incubation period of the virus. Avoid direct contact with others and regularly disinfect surfaces you touch. 2. Contact a doctor: Consult a doctor within 24 hours of symptom onset. In Ticino, medical centers in Lugano, Bellinzona, and Locarno offer dedicated services. The cost of the visit is covered by the Swiss healthcare system, but cross-border workers need to present the European Health Insurance Card. 3. Diagnostic test: The PCR test for monkeypox is available at cantonal laboratories. The cost is approximately 150 CHF, but it may be reimbursed according to current regulations. 4. Follow authorities' guidelines: Swiss health authorities provide specific guidelines for treatment and symptom management. For example, treatment with tecovirimat is available by medical prescription. 5. Inform close contacts: Use the SwissCovid app to notify close contacts and allow them to monitor symptoms. In Ticino, 70% of reported cases in 2026 used this app. ### Useful tools For further information and to monitor the monkeypox situation in Switzerland, you can consult the website of the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). Additionally, it is useful to use tools such as the health risk calculator to assess any symptoms and take necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus. > "Vigilance is fundamental to prevent the spread of monkeypox, especially for cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy." - FOPH ### Operational checklist - Isolation: Stay in isolation for 21 days. - Medical contacts: Consult a doctor within 24 hours. - D...
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
- Symptoms of monkeypox can include skin rashes, flu-like symptoms, and issues in the genital and anal areas. They may appear within 5-21 days after close contact with an infected person.
- How is monkeypox transmitted?
- Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes, as well as through infected secretions from vesicles or lesions on the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person.
- What to do in case of suspected infection?
- In case of suspected infection, it is important to isolate immediately, contact a doctor for an assessment, and follow the instructions of the health authorities for treatment and symptom management.