London and North West England have seen increased mpox cases (Image: Getty)
An increase in mpox cases in England has prompted a warning to medics from public health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) told clinicians in a briefing that they need to be aware of certain groups being at particular risk.
London and the North West of England were singled out as seeing increased cases of the viral infection, which causes a fever, rash and symptoms similar to flu. The briefing note, reported by Pulse Today, reads: « UKHSA plans to reissue advice to communities most at risk, remind clinicians to remain vigilant and improve coverage of two doses of vaccination for those eligible ».
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Official figures show there were 56 cases of mpox clade 2b in England in January.
The first two weeks of February saw 47 recorded cases of the infection, which can be passed on through kissing, sex, cuddling, coughs, sneezes and touching surfaces used by someone with mpox.
UKHSA’s briefing says most infections are among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.
It adds most cases are clade 2b, but there has been a rise in clade 1b cases in London.
Clade 1 mpox is mainly found in parts of central and east Africa while Clade 2 mpox is found at low levels in many countries around the world, according to the NHS.
More severe symptoms are associated with Clade 1b mpox. Clade 2 mpox was behind a global outbreak in 2022. It is believed to be more contagious.
UKHSA’s note says an increase in mpox transmission is still possible although Britain’s « high » coverage of pre-exposure vaccination among eligible people would protect against another large outbreak.
Dr Katy Sinka, Head of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UKHSA, told Pulse Today: « We’re seeing an increase in mpox cases so far in 2026, which is a reminder this unpleasant illness hasn’t gone away.
« If you’re eligible, the mpox vaccine is now available routinely as part of your sexual healthcare alongside STI and HIV testing, screening and other vaccines.
« It’s one of the best ways to protect yourself against mpox and reduces your chances of becoming severely unwell if you do catch it. Make sure to get both doses to get maximum protection. »
It usually takes five to 21 days for the first symptoms of mpox to appear.
These include: a high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery, a headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen glands, shivering, exhaustion and joint pain. Someone with mpox may not get all symptoms.
A rash usually appears one to five days after the first symptoms. It can be on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals and anus. It is also possible to get anal pain or bleeding from your bottom.
Mpox is usually mild and clears within a few weeks, but more severe symptoms may require hospital treatment, according to the NHS.
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