Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a rare infection caused by a similar virus to smallpox and it’s most commonly found in west or central Africa. However, cases have been reported in the UK and a recent rise might have you wondering if you can get a vaccination to protect yourself against it despite the risk of catching it being low, according to the NHS. Mpox can be passed from person to person through any close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs.
This includes sexual contact, kissing, cuddling or holding hands. It can also be passed on when touching clothing, bedding or towels that have been used by those with mpox and if you’re close to someone with mpox who is coughing or sneezing. If you need urgent medical help but you're not sure where to go, use 111 to get assessed and directed to the right place for you.
Call, go online or use the NHS App. ➡️ https://t.co/xD61F8nwyL pic.
twitter.com/M3Wjumzlgc — NHS (@NHSuk) August 14, 2024 The NHS website adds that those in some parts of west or central Africa may get mpox from infected rodents such as rats, squirrels or mice if you’re bitten, you touch their fur, skin, blood, body fluids, spots, blisters or scabs or you eat their meat that hasn’t been cooked thoroughly. Is there an mpox vaccine in the UK? The NHS said: “Although more people have been diagnosed with it recently, only a small number of people in the UK have had mpox and the risk remains low.
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