Monkeypox is the latest infectious disease of concern globally, after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared it a 'global health emergency' on 23 July. As of 25 July, there were 2,367 confirmed cases of the disease in the UK, and it has now been confirmed that vaccines are starting to be rolled out in Bristol and surrounding areas.
The disease has now spread to more than 70 countries, including the UK, and is related to but distinct from the viruses that cause smallpox and cowpox. Whilst infection is mild for many, it can cause hospitalisation and death in some cases.
Symptoms include fever, body aches, chills, fatigue and rashes or lesions, and usually patients get better within three weeks - and a full list of symptoms can be found here. The NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) has now confirmed with Bristol Live that some vaccinations for monkeypox have now begun to be administered in Bristol and surrounding areas.
