'As with any new disease outbreak, the risk of stigma and uncertainty is great. 'We’re reminding everyone of the symptoms of monkeypox, and especially gay and bisexual men in particular, to be especially aware and seek advice immediately by calling NHS111 or their local sexual health clinic if they have concerns. Professor Kevin Fenton, London regional director for public health said: 'Monkeypox can affect anyone but we know that many of the most recent diagnoses are in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, many of whom live in, or have links to London. In London, outreach activity has included working with venue owners and event organisers.
While the risk to the general public remains low, the current outbreak is the first time that the virus has been passed from person to person in England where travel links to an endemic country have not been identified. Investigations into the cause of the rise continue but currently no single factor or exposure that links the cases has been identified.
Investigations to date have identified links to gay bars, saunas and the use of dating apps in the UK and abroad, according to the UKHSA. Here's the breakdown of the 190 cases in the UK: Some patients are being treated at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital (Image: Lucy Williamson) The full breakdown of monkeypox cases in the UK
