MPOX is a rare infectious disease, but there are a number of cases in the UK. That number is rising.

MPOX (or monkeypox) is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus. It is usually a mild self-limiting illness, spread by very close contact with someone with MPOX and most people recover within a few weeks.

The virus can spread if there is close contact between people and the risk to the UK population is low. However, recent cases are predominantly in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men and as the virus spreads through close contact, we are advising these groups to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, and to contact a sexual health service if they have concerns.

Symptoms

  • Unusual rashes or lesions on the body such as the face or genital area
  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Chills and exhaustion
  • Headaches
  • Swollen lymph nodes

If you think you have MPOX symptoms – however mild:

  • Contact NHS 111 or call us immediately. Your call will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
  • Avoid close personal or sexual contact with others until you know that this is not MPOX.

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

The NHS MPOX outbreak vaccination programme ended on 31 July 2023. It is therefore not available in Leeds at this time.

It will still be available in London to eligible people who:

  • live in London
  • regularly travel to London to have sex
  • regularly travel to other countries to have sex

Find out more about MPOX vaccination locations on the Sexual Health London website