THE UK Health Security Agency has issued an update on the number of Monkeypox cases in England.

As of Friday, May 20, there has been a further 11 additional cases of the disease detected in England.

The latest detected cases brings the total number of Monkeypox cases confirmed in England since May 6 to 20.

Read more: What is monkeypox and why should you be concerned? From the experts

It was confirmed on May 16 that one of the cases was in the North East and the patient is being treated at Newcastle’s RVI.

The individual is being treated in a specialist infectious disease unit at the hospital.

The infection can be passed through close contact or contact with clothing or linens used by a person who has monkeypox.

However, according the UKHSA, the virus does not usually spread easily between people and the risk to the UK population remains low.

Anyone with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, should contact NHS 11 or call a sexual health service if they have concerns.

Read more: Monkeypox symptoms you should look out for amid new UK guidance as cases rise

Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser, UKHSA, said: “We anticipated that further cases would be detected through our active case finding with NHS services and heightened vigilance among healthcare professionals.

“We expect this increase to continue in the coming days and for more cases to be identified in the wider community.

“Alongside this we are receiving reports of further cases being identified in other countries globally. 

She continued to say that the UKHSA is continuing to “investigate the source of these infections and raise awareness among healthcare professionals.”

Read more: New monkeypox guidance for close contacts includes 3 weeks of self isolation

Ms Hopkins added: “Because the virus spreads through close contact, we are urging everyone to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact NHS 111 or a sexual health service if they have any concerns.”

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