The number of confirmed cases of monkeypox in the UK has risen to 78, with seven new cases identified in England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.
It brings the total number in England to 77 cases, with one also confirmed in Scotland.
As of May 24, no cases have been identified in Wales or Northern Ireland, the UKHSA added.
A file photo of a patient with monkeypox
The total number of monkeypox cases have risen to 78 in the UK
PA
Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser for the UKHSA, said: “We are continuing to promptly detect new monkeypox cases through our extensive surveillance network and NHS services.
“If anyone suspects they might have rashes or lesions on any part of their body, particularly if they have recently had a new sexual partner, they should limit their contact with others and contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service as soon as possible – though please phone ahead before attending in person.”
It comes after experts told parents that they should not worry about their children having monkeypox as cases in youngsters are rare.
Researchers, who have been looking at the current outbreak as well as past cases of the virus, added that it is more likely any rash is due to chickenpox or hand foot and mouth disease.
Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion.
A rash can develop, often beginning on the face, which then spreads to other parts of the body including the genitals.