The number of monkeypox cases in the UK has doubled in less than 48 hours.
Health experts at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that 11 more cases of the virus have been detected in England.
This brings the total number of people infected to 20 since May 6. None of the cases have been identified in Scotland so far.
Officials say that a ‘notable portion’ of the early cases have detected in gay and bisexual men. UKHSA is urging people, particularly in these communities, to be alert.
Investigations are underway to determine how monkeypox is spreading in the UK.
A number of the cases identified by the UKHSA are believed to have been acquired through community transmission.
Anyone with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, should contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health service if they have any concerns.
Monkeypox can be passed through close contact or contact with clothing or linens used by a person who has the virus.
The virus does not easily spread between people and the risk to the UK population remains low.
Symptoms of the virus are usually mild and self-limiting, with most people recovering within a few weeks.
These include a fever, headache, muscles aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion.
A rash can also develop, often beginning on the face, then spreading to other parts of the body including the genitals.
Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said: “We anticipated that further cases would be detected through our active case finding with NHS services and heightened vigilance among healthcare professionals.
“We expect this increase to continue in the coming days and for more cases to be identified in the wider community. Alongside this we are receiving reports of further cases being identified in other countries globally.
“We continue to rapidly investigate the source of these infections and raise awareness among healthcare professionals. We are contacting any identified close contacts of the cases to provide health information and advice.
“Because the virus spreads through close contact, we are urging everyone to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact NHS 111 or a sexual health service if they have any concerns.
“Please contact clinics ahead of your visit and avoid close contact with others until you have been seen by a clinician.
“A notable proportion of recent cases in the UK and Europe have been found in gay and bisexual men so we are particularly encouraging them to be alert to the symptoms and seek help if concerned.
“Clinicians should be alert to any individual presenting with unusual rashes without a clear alternative diagnosis and should contact specialist services for advice.”
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
