Monkeypox information for patients

Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease, but there are a number of cases in the UK and that number is rising.

Monkeypox is a viral infection usually associated with travel to West Africa. It is usually a mild, self-limiting illness, spread by very close contact with someone with monkeypox. Most people recover within a few weeks.

The virus can spread if there is close contact between people and the risk to the UK population is low. However, recent cases are mainly reported in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men and, as the virus spreads through close contact, we are advising those in this community to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, and to contact a sexual health service if they have concerns.

Symptoms

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

If you think you have monkeypox symptoms – however mild:

• Contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health clinic immediately (Warwickshire Sexual Health 0300 123 6644). Your call will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
• Avoid close personal or sexual contact with others until you know that this is not monkeypox.

More information from the NHS can be found here - www.nhs.uk/conditions/monkeypox

If you are concerned about monkeypox and believe you may have symptoms, or if you have come into contact with someone with monkeypox, please do not walk into any of our clinics without contacting us first.

Further information

Links to further information on Monkeypox (MPX) in the UK.

• George House Trust - information gathered from various sources
• I-base Monkeypox Q&A
• Latest UK Government (UKHSA) information on monkeypox cases
• BHIVA: Consensus statement on response to the monkeypox outbreak