Monkeypox cases in Greater Manchester rise as disease found in three boroughs

Suspected monkeypox cases have risen in Greater Manchester. There have now been six potential cases found across three boroughs in recent weeks.

Three suspected monkeypox cases have been identified in Salford, and another two in Manchester borough. One monkeypox case was found in Wigan during the week ending June 12.

The climbing cases in Greater Manchester come amid a national rise, with more than 900 cases being reported across the UK. In England there are 873, with 590 of those in London as of the latest data issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for June 23.

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As of June 23, the UKHSA had confirmed 910 cases of monkeypox across the UK. Of these, 26 were in Scotland, 3 were in Northern Ireland, 8 were in Wales and 873 were in England.

There were 31 cases in the North West in total - a rise of five since the previous data set issued on June 21. That marks an increase of more than six times in just three weeks in the region.

Dr Sophia Makki, Incident Director at UKHSA, said: "We continue to see a steady increase in monkeypox cases. We’re reminding everyone to be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox, particularly if you’ve recently had new or multiple sexual partners, to help prevent further spread and protect others.

"If you have a rash with blisters, or any other monkeypox symptoms, don’t go to events, meet with friends or have sexual contact. Instead, stay at home and contact 111 or your local sexual health service for advice. Please contact the clinic ahead of your visit and avoid close contact with others until you’ve been reviewed by a clinician."

Monkeypox has been slammed as a