Once a smallpox patient has been identified, what is the response for the hospital or clinic? Do we quarantine?
Until a case is confirmed, our recommendation would be the same as for any rash illness, such as measles. Get the suspect patient into a negative air pressure room and gather the name and locating information for those exposed to the patient. If they don’t have a negative air pressure room, get them to a facility that does. State and local governments have primary responsibility for isolation and/or quarantine within their borders. The federal government may isolate and/or quarantine smallpox cases when there is the potential for interstate spread of disease or the importation of disease among passengers arriving from foreign countries. You should consult with your state or local attorney for advice on isolation and quarantine within your jurisdiction.
