Monkeypox is a rare infection most commonly found in west or central Africa. There has recently been an increase in cases in the UK, but the risk of catching it is low.
Monkeypox is a viral infection, spread by close contact with someone with the virus. Monkeypox can be passed on from person to person through:
- any close physical contact with monkeypox blisters or scabs (including during sexual contact, kissing, cuddling or holding hands)
- touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with monkeypox
- the coughs or sneezes of a person with monkeypox when they're close to you
Anyone can get monkeypox, but available data shows that the virus continues to be transmitted primarily in interconnected sexual networks of gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men.
As the virus spreads through close contact, we are advising these groups to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia.
Everyone needs to be aware of symptoms
If you get monkeypox, it usually takes between 5 and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear. The symptoms of monkeypox include:
- Unusual rashes or blisters on the body, including mouth, genitals and anus. Some get just one spot
- a high temperature
- a headache
- muscle aches
- backache
- swollen glands
- shivering (chills)
- exhaustion
- Proctitis (anal or rectal pain or bleeding)
