Mpox symptoms with 21 cases confirmed by health officials
The Public Health Agency has confirmed 21 cases of Mpox in Northern Ireland11:36, 04 Jul 2026Updated 11:42, 04 Jul 2026People in Northern Ireland who are eligible for the Mpox vaccine are being urged to get. . .
The Public Health Agency has confirmed 21 cases of Mpox in Northern Ireland11:36, 04 Jul 2026Updated 11:42, 04 Jul 2026People in Northern Ireland who are eligible for the Mpox vaccine are being urged to get vaccinated before the summer holidays, after the Public Health Agency confirmed 21 cases of the viral infection — previously known as monkeypox — over the past three weeks. This marks a considerable increase, with the BBC reporting that only nine cases of Mpox had been recorded in Northern Ireland since 2023. The Public Health Agency is calling on people to familiarise themselves with the symptoms, remain alert to warning signs, and get vaccinated, though not everyone will qualify for the jab. The key symptoms that the Public Health Agency wants the public to watch out for include blistering rashes, aches, fever, and swollen glands, all of which can persist for up to three weeks. According to the NHS, the first symptoms of mpox include:a high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shiverya headachemuscle achesbackacheswollen glandsshivering (chills)exhaustionjoint painThe most recognisable sign of mpox is a distinctive rash, which typically appears one to five days after other symptoms emerge. It can develop on any part of the body, including the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, or genitals, reportsBelfast Live. The rash is occasionally confused with chickenpox. It begins as small raised spots that develop into ulcers or tiny fluid-filled blisters, which eventually crust over and form scabs that subsequently fall off. Dr Rachel Coyle, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: "We want to remind those who are eligible to get vaccinated. Vaccination is available for those eligible in Northern Ireland through sexual health clinics, also known as genitourinary medicine or GUM clinics. "While anyone can catch mpox, the majority of mpox cases in the UK are in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). "Therefore, those eligible for the vaccine include gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men who have multiple sexual partners, and those who participate in group sex or attend sex on premises venues. Staff who work in these premises are also eligible. "If you think you may be eligible and have not yet received your first dose or completed the course of two vaccines, contact your local GUM clinic and enquire about getting the vaccine. "Mpox spreads between individuals through close physical contact with the virus's distinctive rash, blisters or scabs, including during sexual activity or direct skin-to-skin contact. It can also be contracted via contaminated items such as bedding or towels, as well as through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person nearby coughs or sneezes. Article continues belowIn the majority of cases, mpox is a mild illness that typically resolves on its own within a few weeks, without requiring medical intervention. That said, those displaying symptoms can still transmit the virus to others, with certain groups at a heightened risk of developing more serious complications. These vulnerable groups include the elderly, young children, and individuals taking immunosuppressive medication.