Monkeypox in the UK

What to do

How to reduce your risk of getting monkeypox

  • Wash your hands with soap and water regularly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
  • Only eat meat that has been cooked thoroughly.
  • Do not go near wild or stray animals, including dead animals.
  • Do not go near any animals that appear unwell.
  • Do not eat or touch meat from wild animals (bush meat).
  • Do not share bedding or towels with people who are unwell and may have monkeypox.
  • Do not have close contact with people who are unwell and may have monkeypox.

Take action

If you think you have monkeypox symptoms no matter how mild they may appear:

  • Contact NHS 111 or call a sexual health clinic immediately. Your call will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
  • Avoid close personal or sexual contact with others until you know that this is not monkeypox.

Please contact the sexual health clinic before your visit and avoid close contact with anyone until you have been seen by a clinician. Please be assured that your call or discussion will be treated sensitively and confidentially.