Sixteen further monkeypox cases detected in England

May 27, 2022

A further 16 cases of monkeypox have been detected in England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

The latest cases bring the total number confirmed in England since May 7 to 101.

There have been three confirmed monkeypox cases in Scotland, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland, taking the UK total to 106.

A statement from UKHSA said the risk to the UK population remains low.

But people have been urged to stay alert to new rashes or lesions, which would appear like spots, ulcers or blisters, on any part of their body.

“Although this advice applies to everyone, the majority of the cases identified to date have been among men who are gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men, so we are asking these people in particular to be aware of the symptoms, particularly if they have recently had a new sexual partner,” the statement said.

“You should contact a sexual health clinic immediately if you develop a rash or lesions.”

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Dr Susan Hopkins, UKHSA chief medical adviser, said: “We are continuing to promptly identify further Monkeypox cases in England through our extensive surveillance and contact tracing networks, our vigilant NHS services, and thanks to people coming forward with symptoms.”

UKHSA health protection teams are in the process of contacting people considered to be high-risk contacts of confirmed cases.

Those who have been risk assessed and remain well are advised to isolate at home for up to 21 days.

The first cases of the virus in Wales and Northern Ireland were recorded on Thursday, while Scotland confirmed a further two cases.

A smallpox vaccine is being offered to close contacts to reduce their risk of symptoms and severe illness.

UKHSA said it has bought 20,000 doses of a smallpox vaccine called Imvanex, which is being offered to identified close contacts of those diagnosed with monkeypox to reduce the risk of symptomatic infection and severe illness.

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