Latest information from the UK Health Security Agency
Following the World Health Organisation declaring an mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, the UKHSA has released a statement, and published a blog article. The emergence last year and rapid spread of a new mpox virus strain in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, clade 1b, is one of the main reasons for the declaration. There have been seven cases of Clade 1 mpox confirmed in the UK.
UKHSA states that:
‘The risk to the UK population remains low. We expect to see the occasional imported case of Clade Ib mpox in the UK.’
Brighton SHAC will communicate any updates on this website if these become available.
If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing any mpox symptoms, please call the clinic on 01273 523 388 for further advice.
What is mpox?
Mpox (previously referred to as monkeypox) is a viral illness caused by the mpox virus.
Cases of mpox (clade IIb) in the UK
Clade Ib mpox cases have been increasing in Central and East Africa. There have been no cases as yet in the UK.
Clade IIb mpox is responsible for the global outbreak that began in 2022, and for which there is data about confirmed cases in the UK.
In 2023 and 2024 (up to 31 December 2024), there have been a total of 429 cases of mpox clade IIb reported in the UK, with 406 of those cases in England. Around half of these cases are presumed to have been acquired outside the UK, and the majority have been in men who are gay, bisexual or who have sex with other men. The route of transmission from cases diagnosed in 2022 was mostly from sexual contact.
How does mpox spread?
Mpox is passed on from person to person through any close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs. This includes holding hands, kissing and during sexual contact.
It can also be passed on by touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with mpox.
Symptoms of mpox
Monkeypox or mpox symptoms can be similar to other viruses and colds.
You may notice a headache, fever, muscle aches, swollen glands, chills or exhaustion.
If you develop any of these symptoms after meeting a new sexual partner, this may be a sign that you have mpox.
More obvious symptoms include a rash, unusual spots, ulcers or blisters anywhere on the body.
These symptoms can start as soon as two days or take up to three weeks to develop.
Whilst there is no treatment specifically for mpox, getting the smallpox vaccine within four days of exposure can help prevent infection and make symptoms much milder.
In extreme cases, you may need to visit the hospital for pain relief, and take other medications to relieve symptoms.
If you think you may have been exposed to mpox, or you have developed any of these symptoms, phone your local sexual health clinic.
Make sure you call ahead before your visit.
To find out more, visit our website, tht.org.uk/mpox
The first symptoms of mpox include:
- a high temperature
- a headache
- muscle aches
- backache
- swollen glands
- shivering (chills)
- exhaustion
A rash usually appears 1 to 5 days after the first symptoms. The rash often begins on the face, then spreads to other parts of the body. This can include the genitals and anus. Unless you have been in close contact with someone who has mpox or has mpox symptoms, or have recently travelled to west or central Africa, you’re extremely unlikely to have mpox. If you feel unwell or have any concerns, call SHAC on 01273 523 388.
How is mpox diagnosed?
Firstly, a clinician will need to assess your symptoms. You can book an appointment at SHAC East by calling the clinic on 01273 523 388, or you can attend a walk in appointment at SHAC Central. At your appointment they will take a swab to be sent for testing for the mpox virus alongside testing for other infections. The clinician will be able to give further advice for you and any recent sexual partners about mpox.
Mpox vaccination
Brighton SHAC is offering mpox vaccinations people at risk of mpox via booked vaccination clinics.
If you think you might be eligible or if you have any concerns that you may be experiencing any mpox symptoms, please call the service on 01273 523 388 for further advice.