More than half of England’s confirmed monkeypox cases have occurred in men who are gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, new data shows.

Of 190 confirmed cases identified by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) from 6 to 31 May, 183 were in England, four were in Scotland, two were in Northern Ireland and one was in Wales.

The findings show, 86% of England’s cases are in London residents and only two were women.

Most monkeypox cases have occurred in people aged 20 to 49 years old.

111 cases are males known to be gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, the agency said.

Investigations to date have identified links to gay bars, saunas and the use of dating apps in the UK and abroad, the UKHSA said.

Professor Kevin Fenton, London regional director for public health said: “Monkeypox can affect anyone but we know that many of the most recent diagnoses are in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, many of whom live in, or have links to London.

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“We’re reminding everyone of the symptoms of monkeypox, and especially gay and bisexual men in particular, to be especially aware and seek advice immediately by calling NHS 111 or their local sexual health clinic if they have concerns.

“As with any new disease outbreak, the risk of stigma and uncertainty is great. This is why we’re working side by side with the NHS, sexual health, voluntary and community sector organisations in London to share accurate information about Monkeypox especially to people and groups at increased risk through representative voices.”

In a separate announcement the UKHSA gave the most recent infection numbers as 188 in England, 5 cases in Scotland, 2 in Northern Ireland and 1 in Wales, taking the UK total to 196.

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