Scotland records two more monkeypox cases as national number rises to three

Two further cases of monkeypox have been recorded in Scotland, health officials have confirmed.

Rising numbers of the viral infection have been tracked across the UK in recent weeks amid concerns a strain from West Africa had been transported into the country.

The first Scottish outbreak was verified by experts from Public Health Scotland (PHS) on Monday, May 23 but two others have now been traced.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) updated the UK-wide total to 90 on Thursday after both Northern Ireland and Wales confirmed their first cases.

Both individuals are now receiving “appropriate care and treatment” in line with national guidance.

PHS medical director, Dr Nick Phin, said: “PHS is working with NHS Boards and wider partners in Scotland and the UK to investigate the source of these infections.

“We have well established and robust infection control procedures for dealing with such cases of infectious disease and these are being strictly followed.

“The overall risk to the general public is low.

“Anyone with an unusual blister-like rash or small number of blister-like sores on any part of their body, including their genital area, should avoid close contact with others and seek medical advice if they have any concerns.”

The strain present in the UK is described as “mild self-limiting illness, spread by very close contact with someone already infected and with symptoms.”

Recovery time for those infected is generally around two weeks.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include a blister-like rash or small number of blister-like sores can develop, often beginning on the face, then spreading to other parts of the body, including the genital area.

They may also include: