Monkeypox Virus Outbreak Cases confirmed in England Two more cases of monkeypox identified by the UKHSA
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected two more cases of monkeypox, one in London and one in south-east England.
The most recent cases bring the total number of confirmed monkeypox cases in England since May 6 to 9, with the most recent cases occurring predominantly in gay, bisexual or men who have sex with men (MSM).
The 2 most recent cases have no travel connections to a country where monkeypox is endemic, so it is possible they acquired the infection through community transmission.
The virus spreads through close contact and UKHSA advises people, particularly homosexuals, bisexuals or MSM, to be alert for any unusual rash or lesions on any part of their body, particularly their genitals, and to contact a sexual health service if they do have concerns.
Monkeypox has not been described as a sexually transmitted infection, although it can be transmitted through direct contact during sex. It can also be passed through other close contact with a person who has monkeypox or through contact with clothing or bedding used by a person with monkeypox.
The 2 new cases have no known links to previous confirmed cases reported on May 16, 14 and 7.
UKHSA is working closely with the NHS and other stakeholders to urgently investigate where and how recently confirmed cases of monkeypox were acquired, including how they may be linked.
The virus does not usually spread easily between people. The risk to the British population remains low.
Anyone who is concerned they may have contracted monkeypox are advised to contact NHS 111 or a sexual health clinic. People should notify clinics before their visit. We can assure you that your call or conversation will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
Monkeypox is a viral infection usually associated with travel to West Africa. It’s usually a mild, self-limiting illness that’s spread through very close contact with someone with monkeypox, and most people recover within a few weeks.
Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser, UKHSA, said:
These latest cases, together with reports of cases in countries across Europe, confirms our initial concerns that there could be spread of monkeypox within our communities.
UKHSA has quickly identified cases so far and we continue to rapidly investigate the source of these infections and raise awareness among healthcare professionals.
We are particularly urging men who are gay and bisexual to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service without delay if they have concerns. Please contact clinics ahead of your visit.
We are contacting any identified close contacts of the cases to provide health information and advice.
Clinicians should be alert to individuals presenting with rashes without a clear alternative diagnosis and should contact specialist services for advice.
Symptoms
Initial symptoms of monkeypox are fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills and fatigue. A rash may develop, often starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body including the genitals.
The rash changes and goes through different stages and can look like chickenpox or syphilis before eventually forming a scab that later falls off.