Important health information about Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox)This information is being shared by the NHS across North East England

What you need to know:

A single case of a disease caused by a virus called Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox) clade Ib has been found in North East England.
This recent strain of the virus has been circulating in some parts of Africa.
This infection is treatable, and the person in the North East who caught it is now well and no longer infectious after getting medical advice and treatment.

Why are we telling you?

We are letting you know because people who have travelled to affected countries (or know someone who has travelled, for example for work or to visit friends and family) may need to look out for signs and symptoms.
Countries where there are cases of Mpox include:

Burundi

Central African Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Gabon

Kenya

Republic of the Congo

Rwanda

South Sudan

Tanzania

Uganda

Zambia

What is Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox)

Anyone can get Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox), and it is easily treated but it is important to stop it spreading. The condition causes unique skin rashes or sores that need a doctor’s care. Other signs are fever, headaches, muscle pain, back pain, feeling
very tired and swollen glands.

How does it spread?

Mpox can spread through close contact with someone who has the infection and has skin rashes or sores. This could be through close contact when caring for a family member or contact with things such as clothing or bedding that have been used by someone with the infection.
Mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection but can also be spread through close contact during massages or sex.

What should you do?

If you or someone you are close to (including sexual partners) have travelled to any of the affected countries, please look out for signs and symptoms.
Mpox is treatable and early care can prevent further spread to others. If you notice any unusual rashes or skin symptoms and are concerned about mpox, please contact your local sexual health service (if there are genital lesions) or local emergency department. These services are free for everyone. Please see contact details for sexual health services below.
Please be assured that your concerns will be treated in strict confidence and will not affect immigration status.
Please share this notice with your cultural group, place of worship or community leader, who may benefit from this awareness.
More information on signs and symptoms including pictures of the rash can be seen here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mpox/
To find a local sexual health service please see here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/sexual-health-services/find-a-sexual-health-clinic/
“Mpox is treatable – early care prevents spread,” says Dr. Tokunbo Sangowawa, a former Clinical Director of Public Health and the Patron of the Nigerian Community, Tees Valley. “If you’re feeling unwell or notice any unusual symptoms, don’t wait – getting care early protects your health and helps keep our community safe. All visits to clinics or local emergency departments are private and confidential. Your information is protected, and seeking care will not affect your immigration status. Your health and the health of the community is paramount and the services are there to support you – no matter your background or status.”

Sexual Health Clinics in the North East

Bishop Auckland Centre for Sexual Health, Bishop Auckland Hospital 0191 372 8700
Cumbria Cumbria Sexual Health Service 01228 608 989
Darlington Centre for Sexual Health, Darlington Memorial Hospital 01325 743203
Durham Centre for Sexual Health, University Hospital of North Durham 0191 372 8700
Gateshead Trinity Square Health Centre, Gateshead 0191 283 1577
Hartlepool One Life Clinic, Hartlepool 0300 330 1122
South Tyneside Palmer Community Hospital, Jarrow 0191 402 8191
Middlesbrough One Life, Cleveland Centre 0300 330 1122
Northumberland One to One Centre – The Blyth Health Centre 0344 728 0554
Newcastle upon Tyne Solutions 4 Health, Hadrian House, Newcastle upon Tyne 0800 500 3019
North Tyneside One to One Centre, North Tyneside (Shiremoor) 0344 728 0554
Redcar Redcar & Cleveland Leisure & Community Heart, Redcar 0300 330 1122
Stockton Lawson Street, Stockton on Tees 0300 330 1122
Sunderland Sunderland Royal Hospital 0191 569 902