With an increase in monkeypox cases across the UK, health officials are keeping a close eye on the number of confirmed infections and are trying to control the spread of the virus. There are now nine cases of monkeypox in the UK and it is thought they got the infection through spread in the community, rather than travel.
UK health officials are now "rapidly" investigating the source of the infections and trying to raise awareness among healthcare professionals.
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox was first discovered back in 1958 and is most seen across Africa. Caused by the monkeypox virus, this rare disease is said to be spread by rodents and not monkeys, as the name might suggest.
How is monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox can be spread by animals and humans. Catching monkeypox from an animal often occurs when the animal bites or scratches the human, as well as transmitting bodily fluids. In humans, the virus is transmitted through coughing, sneezing and airborne droplets. Monkeypox is usually linked with travel to West Africa, but the two most recent cases are believed to have been through spread in the community rather than travel. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says the virus does not usually spread easily and the risk to people is low. Most of the cases so far are in men who are gay, bisexual or who have sex with men.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
High temperature
Muscle aches
Swollen glands
Fatigue
Shivering
Navin Khosla, Superintendent Pharmacist at FROM MARS said: “Although cases of monkeypox in the UK are on the rise, it’s a rare disease and most people who contract the virus usually only suffer with mild symptoms which last around 2 to 4 weeks.
"In the midst of the covid-19 pandemic, many Brits are anxious when stories like those related to monkeypox are reported in the news and although your chances of catching monkeypox are extremely slim, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and the steps you can take to avoid the virus.
"No matter how obscure this may sound, it’s important to stay away from any dead animals you may come across, whether that’s in the street or local woodlands and stay away from animals which appear unwell.
"In relation to human transmission, it’s important to avoid contact with any humans who are unwell and refrain from sharing bedding, towels and other items they may have been in contact with.
"Alongside all of these precautions, it’s important to wash your hands on a regular basis and use hand sanitiser as often as possible, as well as only eating meat which has been cooked thoroughly.
"If you believe you might have monkeypox then it’s vital you isolate and ring your GP and explain your symptoms and they will talk you through the next steps and what you need to do in order to prevent the virus from transmitting to other people.”
