We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.
We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.
On 25 May 2021, UK public health authorities notified the World Health Organization of two cases of monkeypox in North Wales. The first case arrived in the UK on 08 May 2021 after living and working in Delta State, Nigeria, where monkeypox is known to occur.
On 10 May 2021, this case developed a rash while in quarantine and was admitted to hospital on 23 May 2021. On 29 May 2021, a family member living with the first case became unwell and was also diagnosed with monkeypox and admitted to hospital.
Both cases are recovering. Public health authorities advise that necessary precautions have been taken, close contacts have been traced and risk to the public is low. Since 2018, a total of five cases of monkeypox have now been imported into the UK.
Monkeypox occurs mainly in forested areas of Central and West Africa. Most infections result from direct contact with infected animals, primarily primates and rodents. Person to person transmission can occur. Symptoms in humans commence with fever and a flu-like illness followed by the development of a skin rash.
Monkeypox is an uncommon zoonotic infection that is rarely seen in travellers.
Travellers to Central and West Africa should:
A vaccine against monkeypox is not widely available. Prior smallpox vaccination is protective, First generation smallpox vaccine is no longer available.
For further information see Monkeypox.
