You may have heard about monkeypox in the news recently. But what is it, what are the symptoms and how can you access help and information?

Monkeypox is a rare illness caused by the monkeypox virus, but there are several cases in the UK. The virus can be passed on through close physical contact between people like:

• Kissing, skin-to-skin contact or having sex with someone with the monkeypox rash·
• Touching or sharing things like clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with the monkeypox rash
• Touching monkeypox skin blisters or scabs
• The coughs or sneezes of a person with the monkeypox rash

If you test positive for monkeypox, it usually takes between five and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear. Symptoms include recent unexpected/unusual spots, ulcers, or blisters anywhere on your body, fever, # headaches, muscle aches, swollen glands, chills, and exhaustion. A rash can develop, often beginning on the face, then spreading to other parts of the   body. The rash changes and goes through different stages before finally forming a scab, which later falls off.

UKHSA is investigating the recent cases in England. A notable proportion of recent cases detected have been in in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. UKHSA is urging this group in particular to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service if they have concerns.

Anyone with concerns that they could have monkeypox should call NHS 111 or contact a sexual health clinic. Please make sure you contact the clinic ahead of a visit. Stay at home and avoid close contact with other people until you have been told what to do.

If you are unable to contact a sexual health clinic, please call NHS 111

Please visit the NHS website for more information.

Free, downloadable resources are available on the government’s campaign resource centre.