UK Monkeypox Cases Hit 524 Amid Heatwave Warning
Monkeypox Cases Surge Across the UK
As of June 14, the UK has recorded a total of 524 confirmed monkeypox cases. England leads with 504 cases, Scotland has 13, Wales five, and Northern Ireland two.
Health officials warn anyone can catch monkeypox, especially after close contact or sexual contact with someone showing symptoms.
Spot the Symptoms – Act Fast!
If you notice a rash with blisters and have been in close contact – including sexual contact – with a suspected or confirmed monkeypox case in the last three weeks, get in touch with a sexual health clinic immediately. Better safe than sorry.
Heat-Health Alert Adds to Concerns
To complicate matters, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a Level 3 Heat-Health Alert for London, the East of England, and the South East. This follows a Level 2 alert issued earlier this week. The East Midlands and South West remain under Level 2 alert.
Temperatures are expected to soar, peaking on Friday, June 17, with alerts staying in place until midnight on Saturday, June 18.
Monkeypox and Sex: New Evidence Emerges
The World Health Organization is investigating evidence that monkeypox can be transmitted sexually. Scientists have found viral DNA in the sperm of patients in Italy and Portugal. One lab sample even showed the virus in sperm could infect and replicate in another person.
The outbreak, mainly focused in Europe, involves many cases among sexual partners with close contact. Experts stress the virus mainly spreads through close interpersonal contact.
