More than half of confirmed cases of smallpox in England have occurred in gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men, according to new data.
Of the 190 confirmed cases identified by the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) from 6 to 31 May, 183 were in England, four in Scotland, two in Northern Ireland and one in Wales.
The findings show that 86% of cases in England are in London residents and only two were women.
Most cases of smallpox have occurred in people between the ages of 20 and 49.
111 cases are men known to be gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men, the agency said.
Research has so far identified links to gay bars, saunas and the use of dating apps in the UK and abroad, the UKHSA said.
Professor Kevin Fenton, London’s regional director of public health, said: who live or have links in London.
“We are reminding everyone of the symptoms of monkeypox, and especially gay and bisexual men, who are especially attentive and seek advice immediately by calling NHS 111 or your local sexual health clinic if you have any questions.
“As with any new disease outbreak, the risk of stigma and uncertainty is high. That is why we are working hand in hand with the NHS, sexual health organizations, volunteering and community sector organizations in London to share. accurate information about Monkeypox, especially to people at risk, and groups at higher risk through representative voices “.
In a separate announcement, the UKHSA gave the most recent infection figures as 188 in England, 5 cases in Scotland, 2 in Northern Ireland and 1 in Wales, bringing the UK total to 196.