Mpox cases are still being identified in the UK, prompting leading sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust to remind everyone that it has not gone away.
From 1 January to 30 November this year, there have been 135 new cases reported in the UK, according to data published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on 7 December.
However, almost half (56) of these were found in October and November. Richard Angell, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, has since stated that we could “see more in December and as we enter the new year, as it takes between 2 to 21 days for symptoms to show.” “The latest UKHSA data shows that cases of mpox (formerly monkeypox) in the UK are now much lower thanks to the ongoing vaccination programme – but mpox has not gone away,” he said. “It’s still also vital to be aware of the symptoms and latest health advice” Angell continued: “If you change partners often, or have partners who do, now is the time to get your first and second vaccine dose, especially if you’re having sex in London or travel abroad for sex. “It’s still also vital to be aware of the symptoms and latest health advice.
In the first stages of mpox, you might have a fever, headache, aches and pains, or swollen glands. This usually progresses to developing a rash, sores, or spots – most commonly on the face, mouth, hands, genitals and rectum (bum). “If you think you might have come into contact with mpox please get in touch with your sexual health clinic.