What to do in the event of suspected cases and positive tests

Procedure in the event of a suspected case or when dealing with someone who has tested positive for monkeypox, in terms of lab diagnostics and reporting. Find out more here.

Measures to take in the event of suspected cases

Consider monkeypox infection as a possible cause in people with clinical symptoms and report your suspicion immediately to the competent cantonal authority.

Laboratory diagnosis by PCR is indicated when monkeypox infection is suspected.

To prevent infection when dealing with suspected cases, adhere to the protective measures from Swissnoso.

• When monkeypox infection is suspected, laboratory diagnosis by PCR is indicated.
• To prevent infection when dealing with suspected cases, adhere to the protective measures from Swissnoso.
• Instruct the person concerned so that they observe the behavioural recommendations for people who have tested positive until the test result is available. You will find information on this on the following site: Monkeypox: how to protect yourself > You have tested positive for monkeypox
  

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What to do in the event of a positive test

• To prevent infection when dealing with people who have tested positive, the protective measures from Swissnoso should be adhered to.
• Those affected will receive the necessary instructions and information from the competent cantonal authority,
• We recommend the following rules of behaviour for anyone who tests positive:
  • - Avoid close contact with other people and animals for 21 days;
  • - If close contact is necessary (for example to consult with a health professional), cover skin lesions and wear a hygiene mask;
  • - Avoid sexual contact for 21 days after a positive test result;
  • - Use a condom for eight weeks after a positive test result.
  • - You will find more tips for people who have tested positive on this on the following site: Monkeypox: how to protect yourself > You have tested positive for monkeypox

You will find information on animal health in relation to monkeypox on the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office website: Monitoring of zoonotic diseases (in German, French and Italian only).

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Lab diagnostics

For laboratory diagnosis, take a sample by means of a swab or biopsy of skin efflorescences (exudate, pustule contents, crusts, etc.). Then send it to the reference centre for newly emerging viral infections (NAVI/CRIVE) in Geneva:

• 24/7 contact number 079 55 30 922;
• https://www.hug.ch/laboratoire-virologie/formulaires-informations
• Samples are shipped as a Category B (UN 3373) biological substance, (triple packed).

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Reporting cases

Monkeypox infections are subject to mandatory reporting. You will find information on reporting suspected cases at Infektionskrankheiten melden (reporting infectious diseases; German, French and Italian only).

Last modification 21.09.2022