Latest mpox cases a reminder that the infection has not gone away

UKHSA is today urging people to remain vigilant ahead of the summer months as the latest data shows a spike in cases in London over the past four weeks.

In a preliminary epidemiological update published today (25 May), a further 10 cases of Mpox have been diagnosed in the UK since the last epidemiological update on 4 May. This brings the total number of new cases in the UK to 20 since the beginning of the year.

All cases were diagnosed in London, with half of them in unvaccinated people and two in those who had only received one dose. Five of the cases contracted the infection in the UK, four are believed to have acquired the infection abroad and one is still under investigation.

Vaccinations have played a crucial role in protecting people and reducing the number of cases. Those who are eligible but have not yet received two doses of the vaccine are encouraged to come in and book their first dose by June 16, 2023 and book their second dose by the end of July 2023.

Katy Sinka, Head of the Sexually Transmitted Infections Unit UKHSAcalled:

It is clear from these latest statistics that mpox has not disappeared. While MPOX infection is mild for many, it can lead to severe symptoms for some. Therefore, it is important that people remain aware of the risks. Vaccination is key to reducing the severity of symptoms and preventing further transmission. Uptake of the first doses was strong, but only about a third of those who received their first dose have received their second dose to date.

The program is coming to an end, so we strongly encourage all beneficiaries to come in for a vaccination if you have not received a dose or two. Our goal is to eliminate this nasty disease completely from the UK – vaccination and community action have done a great job of bringing the number of cases down significantly and we must not let up now.

Anyone at highest risk of MPOX is entitled to two doses of the vaccine. UKHSA Data have shown that one dose of the vaccine provides 78% protection against the virus as early as 14 days after vaccination; The second dose is designed to provide longer-term protection.

The UK was the first country in the world to recognize the outbreak and responded immediately to alert global health partners, control further transmission and secure vaccines for all of the UK’s most vulnerable people. The Government remains committed to maintaining transmission of Mpoxen and achieving the ultimate goal of preventing transmission of the disease in the UK.

People who are eligible for the vaccine include gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men who have multiple sex partners, engage in group sex, or attend on-premises sex. Employees who work in these premises are also eligible.