Monkeypox update

Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease that is spread by very close contact with someone who has the virus. The risk of catching the virus is low, but there are a number of cases in the UK and that number is rising.

Monkeypox is usually a mild illness and most people recover within a few weeks without treatment

Symptoms of monkeypox are:

• Unusual rashes or lesions on the body or face
• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Chills and exhaustion
• Headaches
• Swollen lymph nodes

Anyone can catch and pass on the Monkeypox virus. However, recent cases have been detected in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. 

If you, or someone you know, experiences unusual rashes or lesions on any part of the body combined with any of the other symptoms, the medical advice is to:

• Contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health clinic immediately. Your call will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
• Avoid close personal contact with others until you have had a clinical assessment.