Yor Free of Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection which spreads via close contact between people. As of right now, it has not been found in York. The symptoms are usually mild and most people recover from illness within a few weeks.

With the risk of monkeypox to the UK being low people shouldn't panic. However, the number of cases is rising and this is predominantly within gay and bisexual people and other men who have sex with other men.

With monkeypox being a disease that can be spread with close contact between people these groups are advised to be wary of any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia.

If you think you have monkeypox or have come into contact with the infection you can relieve symptoms:

• Take regular paracetamol if safe to do so (do not exceed recommended dosage)

• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water

• Keep any blisters or sores clean and covered with light cotton clothing or dressing if appropriate

• Where possible self isolate away from household contacts and pets

A student from the University of York told YorNews,

"I am aware of the infection but that's not going to stop me from doing the things I would do on a daily basis. I can't control it being spread to me if people can spread it with close contact. However, I am in control in the bedroom and will be more weary with my actions. All I can do is hope that it is kept under control in the UK."

YorSexualHealth advise:

"We are aware of increasing numbers of cases of Monkeypox present in the UK population. Do not come directly to clinic if you have any of these symptoms:

• Rash on any part of your body

• Fever

• New lump/s in neck, groin or under your arm

AND

Are you a gay, bisexual or other man who has sex with men?

Have you had contact with someone with confirmed Monkeypox in the 21 days before symptom onset?

Have you travelled to West and Central Africa, in the 21 days before symptoms onset

In the event you answer yes to any of the above please stay at home and isolate and call NHS 111 or your local sexual health services."

GOV.UK state:

"Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with monkeypox virus.

Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958 when outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in monkeys kept for research. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and since then the infection has been reported in a number of central and western African countries. Most cases are reported from the DRC and Nigeria."

"In 2003, monkeypox was recorded in the US when an outbreak occurred following the importation of rodents from Africa. Cases were reported in both humans and pet prairie dogs. All the human infections followed contact with an infected pet and all patients recovered. No other country outside West and Central Africa has reported similar outbreaks."