The total monkeypox in the UK is now 106, says UKHSA
Sixteen more cases of smallpox have been identified in England, health officials said.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said the new cases bring England’s total from May 7 to 101 and the UK’s total to 106.
There have been three confirmed cases in Scotland, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland.
People with unusual rashes or injuries have been urged, especially if they have had a new sexual partner, to limit their contact with other people and to contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health clinic.
Despite the increase in cases, the UKHSA said the risk to the UK population “is being low” as the virus does not spread easily.
Homosexual or bisexual men and men who have sex with men are asked in particular to know the symptoms, as the health agency said that “most of the cases identified so far” have been found in this group.
Dr Susan Hopkins, UKHSA’s Chief Medical Adviser, said: “We continue to quickly identify more cases of monkeypox in England through our extensive surveillance and contact tracking networks, our NHS surveillance services and thanks to people showing symptoms.
“We ask people to watch for new spots, ulcers or blisters on any part of their body. If anyone suspects they may have them, especially if they have recently had a new sexual relationship, they should limit their contact with others. NHS 111 or your local sexual health service as soon as possible, but please call before attending in person. “