A collage of monkeypox rash lesions released by the UKHSA
(Picture: UK Health Security Agency/AFP vi)Monkeypox cases have risen to more than 1,200 across the UK as health authorities have issued a warning ahead of Pride weekend.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows a total of 1,235 confirmed cases in the UK in the latet update.
Almost 700 cases have been recorded in London with 33 new cases detected in the capital since June 26. Seventy-seven per cent of cases in England are located in London - 692 out of 898 cases.
There have been 150 new cases detected in England in less than a week, bringing England’s total number of cases to 1,185.
There are 34 cases in Scotland, 10 in Wales and six in Northern Ireland.
People who have tested positive, have symptoms of monkeypox or have been told to self isolate are advised not to attend Pride.
The overwhelming majority of cases are in homosexual, bisexual or other men who have sex with men, the UKHSA said, as it warned people to “enjoy Pride safely”.
“Before you go to any events or parties, check yourself for blister-like spots and rashes. Please don’t attend if you have monkeypox symptoms or feel unwell,” monkeypox incident director Wendi Shepherd said.
“If you have a rash or blisters, stay at home, phone a sexual health clinic, and get tested. Please be vigilant for any monkeypox symptoms in the coming weeks – especially if you are having sex with someone new.”
Ms Shepherd encouraged people to exchange contact details with sexual partners to limit further transmission.
London regional director for public health @ProfKevinFenton talks about #Monkeypox cases, what we're asking people to look out for & what to do if you have symptoms.
— UKHSA London region (@UKHSA_London) June 1, 2022
Find out more ➡️ https://t.co/QOzQ7fGAQY
Get the latest updates ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/PMU6Tt1c35
More than 1.5 million people are expected to take part either in the parade on Saturday or as spectators, 50 years on since Britain’s first Pride march was held in 1972.
With a focus on unity and equality, it will retrace part of the same route marched 50 years ago.
Monkeypox can spread through touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with the virus, as well as touching skin blisters or through the coughs or sneezes of a person with the rash.
Monkeypox is a rare viral infection, UKSHA London regional director for public health Professor Kevin Fenton said, but can be passed on through close physical contact and the sharing of bedding and towels.
Symptoms of the virus include rash, appearing like spots, ulcers, or blisters anywhere on your body, as well as having a fever, headaches, aching muscles , chills, feeling very tired and having swollen glands.
Call ahead to local sexual health clinic or call 111.
