For advice on monkeypox please call the London helpline: 0333 2423 672 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat/Sun 9am-1pm).

Monkeypox virus or MPV

The UKHSA (UK Health Security Agency, previously Public Health England) has identified multiple confirmed cases of monkeypox virus (MPV) in the UK, mostly affecting gay, bisexual or men who have sex with men (MSM). It is usually a mild illness which does not require treatment, but can sometimes become more serious. UKHSA are contacting people who have been in contact with a known case.

Symptoms of MPV?

Symptoms begin 5–21 days (average 6–16 days) after being exposed to the virus. The first signs are a high fever, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes and a severe headache but some people may not have these initial symptoms. Approximately 1–5 days later a rash appears. The rash often starts on the genitals or face before spreading to other parts of the body. The rash changes and goes through different stages before finally forming a scab (see pictures below). Someone with MPV is infectious until the last scab has fallen off.

MPV is usually mild and most people will recover within a few weeks without any treatment. Reports state that the type of MPV in the UK currently is a different form of the virus, causing a less severe illness. Occasionally, people become more unwell and require hospital admission, so if you have been diagnosed with MPV, it is important to stay in touch with your healthcare provider and let them know if your symptoms worsen.

How is monkeypox acquired?

Monkeypox does not spread easily between people. Person-to-person spread may occur through:

• Direct contact with skin lesions or scabs.
• Contact with clothing or linens (such as bedding or towels) that have been used by an infected person.
• Breathing in droplets from the coughing or sneezing of someone who has a monkeypox rash.