Monkeypox is a rare infectious disease, but case numbers are increasing quickly in the UK at the moment.
It is a viral infection, which causes a mild illness. Symptoms are:
- Headache
- Fever
- Joint and muscle pain
- Loss of appetite
- Chickenpox-like rash
If you have had chickenpox before and develop a new rash, it’s unlikely to be chickenpox a second time.
The smallpox vaccine has a protective effect against monkeypox. Some vulnerable patients and their contacts are being invited for vaccination. Please wait to hear from us and do not contact the hospital to request a vaccination.
People aged 50+ are likely to have had the smallpox vaccine in childhood and there is some evidence this may protect against monkeypox.
What to do if you think you are a contact of someone with monkeypox or think you have Monkeypox symptoms:
Contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health clinic immediately. Your call will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
- West Sussex Sexual Health: 01903 285199
- Brighton and Hove Sexual Health: 01273 523388
Avoid close personal or sexual contact with others until you know that this is not monkeypox.
For more information:
Please contact clinics ahead of your visit and avoid close contact with others until you have been seen by a clinician. Your call or discussion will be treated sensitively and confidentially.