MPOX
What is MPOX?
MPOX (previously known as monkeypox) is a viral infection. There have been a number of confirmed cases of MPOX in Yorkshire. The majority of cases have been among gay and bisexual men. For the most recent published data in your region visit gov.uk.
How is it transmitted?
MPOX spreads through direct contact with body fluids or sores on the body of someone who has MPOX. It can be spread during sex including kissing. Direct contact with unwashed materials that have touched body fluids or sores, such as clothing or bedding, is also a route of transmission. The more men you have sex with the more likely you will come into contact with MPOX.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Rectal pain and discharge
- Backache
- Swollen glands
- Chills
- Exhaustion
- New or unusual spots, ulcers and blisters can develop anywhere on the body.
What should I do?
If you think you may have symptoms, or have come into close contact with someone who has MPOX call a sexual health clinic, who can offer advice and a test if you need one, or contact NHS 111.
Find your local sexual health clinic contact number: Bradford, Hull, Leeds, Rotherham.
If you show symptoms, you should isolate yourself and not have close physical contact with anyone. You should not share towels, clothes, or bedding.
Vaccine Rollout
There is a vaccine that can help prevent the transmission of MPOX. The NHS offers a free vaccine to gay and bisexual men who are most likely to be exposed to MPOX.
As cases have dramatically reduced in number since last summer, the vaccine rollout has wound down. Vaccines are currently only being offered in London.
Keep an eye on our socials where we will post updates when we know about them: