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Monkeypox Cases Confirmed In England – 26 May 2022

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected 8 additional cases of monkeypox in England.

The latest cases, as of 25 May, bring the total number confirmed in England since 7 May to 85.

There are 3 confirmed cases in Scotland, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland, taking the UK total to 90.

The risk to the UK population remains low, but we are asking people to be alert to any new rashes or lesions 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 (MSM), so we are asking these people in particular to be aware of the symptoms, particularly if they have recently had a new sexual partner.

You should contact a sexual health clinic immediately if you develop a rash or lesions – please phone ahead.

Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser, UKHSA, 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.

"If anyone suspects they might have rashes or lesions on any part of their body, particularly if they have recently had a new sexual partner, they should limit their contact with others and contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service as soon as possible, though please phone ahead before attending in person."

UKHSA health protection teams are contacting people considered to be high-risk contacts of confirmed cases and are advising those who have been risk assessed and remain well to isolate at home for up to 21 days.

UKHSA has also purchased over 20,000 doses of a safe smallpox vaccine called Imvanex (supplied by Bavarian Nordic) and this is being offered to identified close contacts of those diagnosed with monkeypox to reduce the risk of symptomatic infection and severe illness.