First Monkeypox Case Confirmed

It has been confirmed that a case of monkeypox has been detected in Jersey.

The government started contact tracing last week after announcing a 'highly probable' case of the virus.

Those who were in direct contact with the affected person have been offered vaccines.

Jabs are also being offered to healthcare workers who are likely to deal with monkeypox.

There are no plans for mass vaccination, but Professor Peter Bradley says they're working with UK colleagues on vaccinating people at particularly high risk of infection.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Chills and exhaustion
• Swollen glands
• Recent unexpected or unusual spots, ulcers or blisters anywhere on the body.

"If anyone is concerned about possible Monkeypox symptoms advice is available through your GP or the Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM) helpline (Tel: 01534 442856).

"We would urge people to avoid close physical contact with others should they develop symptoms until they have received medical advice. It is important to phone ahead before attending any appointment in-person." - Professor Peter Bradley, Director of Public Health.

There have been around 2,000 confirmed cases in the UK since May, with gay men most at risk of contracting it.

The World Health Organisation has declared the monkeypox outbreak as a global emergency.

The virus has been found in more than 70 countries.