Four men have contracted the rare viral disease, which usually occurs in West Africa, in London. Given the recent accumulation, the health service is looking for more cases.
The infections are examined in the laboratory (symbol image).
(dpa) Four more cases of monkeypox have been recorded in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said on Monday there was no known link to the other cases that were recently discovered. The total number of cases has increased to seven.
Four men who were infected in London are affected. The authority explained that all four cases involved men who had sexual contact with other men. There have been no trips to countries where the disease is endemic. A connection between the four infections is still being determined. It is the West African variant, which is milder than the Central African.
In view of the recent increase in cases, the company is working closely with the NHS health service and international partners to identify possible further cases, the message said. Gay men have been asked to look out for any unusual rashes or injuries on their bodies, particularly in the genital area.
The UKHSA had only confirmed two other cases over the weekend. It was initially unclear where the two patients got infected. Another case had already been reported in early May. At the time, it was said that the sick person was probably infected in Nigeria and then traveled to Great Britain.
According to the UKHSA, the rare viral disease usually causes only mild symptoms, but can also have severe courses. Only symptomatic patients with close contact are contagious. The authority estimates the risk for the general population to be low. Symptoms include a rash that first appears on the face and then primarily affects the hands and feet.