Monkeypox: Eight more cases found in England - as first infections recorded in Wales and Northern Ireland
There are now believed to be around 90 cases of monkeypox in the UK, as the virus spreads through community transmission, with infections detected on a daily basis. The risk to the population, however, "remains low".
Thursday 26 May 2022 18:27, UK
Eight more cases of monkeypox have been found in England - after the first infections were identified in Wales and Northern Ireland.
There are now 85 confirmed cases in England and three in Scotland. Across the UK as a whole, the total is 90.
There has been an outbreak of the rare virus across the world, with 19 countries confirming infections.
About 20 countries where it is not endemic have reported outbreaks.
It is spreading through the UK via community transmission, with infections being detected on a daily basis.
The virus, which is normally reported in central and West African countries, causes a rash and fever, but symptoms are mild for most people.
Read more: What are the symptoms of monkeypox, and how do you catch it?
Dr Giri Shankar, director of health protection for Public Health Wales, said: "Public Health Wales is today (Thursday 26 May) confirming that a case of monkeypox has been identified in Wales.
"We are working with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland, and we are ready to respond to cases of monkeypox in Wales.
"The case is being managed appropriately. To protect patient confidentiality, no further details relating to the patient will be disclosed."
He added: "We are reassuring people that monkeypox does not usually spread easily between people, and the overall risk to the general public is low.
"It is usually a mild self-limiting illness, and most people recover within a few weeks. However, severe illness can occur in some individuals."
Health officials in Northern Ireland are expected to hold a briefing later, after the first case was identified there.
Read more: What we know about UK's biggest-ever monkeypox outbreak
Risk to UK population 'remains low'
Despite the recent rise, the UKHSA has said the risk to the overall UK population "remains low".
Gay and bisexual men in particular are being urged to be aware of symptoms, especially if they have recently had a new sexual partner.
UKHSA teams have been tracing contacts of those with a confirmed case and are advising those at highest risk to isolate for 21 days.
A smallpox vaccine is also being offered to close contacts to reduce their risk of symptoms and severe illness.
Anyone with concerns that they could be infected with monkeypox is advised to contact NHS 111.