First monkeypox case confirmed in Wales
The first case of monkeypox has been confirmed in Wales, health officials have said.
Dr Giri Shankar, director of health protection for Public Health Wales, said: “We are working with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland, and we are ready to respond to cases of monkeypox in Wales.
“The case is being managed appropriately. To protect patient confidentiality, no further details relating to the patient will be disclosed.”
#Monkeypox Anyone with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body should contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health service. With recent cases mainly reported in gay and bisexual men, those in this community should be particularly alert.
Get the latest updates ⏬— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) May 23, 2022
There are now believed to be 79 cases of monkeypox in the UK.
The UKHSA will update the totals later on Thursday.