Going to Pride in An Era of "Monkeypox"

Stonewall, Europe’s largest LGBTQIA+ campaign group, have been following with concern the outbreak of the virus known as “monkeypox”.  (The World Health Organisation may change the name because the current nomenclature may be playing into right wing coverage blaming certain groups for the virus).  Stonewall, always on the look out for public health and the wellbeing of our communities, have issued this useful guidance ahead of Pride.   

There is concern that a sizable number of the confirmed cases of monkeypox in the UK have been in gay and bi men. 
 
However, anyone with monkeypox can pass it on, regardless of sexual orientation. 
 
Monkeypox is passed on via close contact, including sexual contact. While the strain in the UK has a low mortality rate and most people make a full recovery, the blisters can leave permanent scars. 

Watch out for symptoms, especially if you’ve had close contact with new partners:   Unusual rashes, or lesions on the body, such as the face or genital area;  Fever;  Muscle aches;  Chills & exhaustion;  Headaches;  Swollen lymph nodes. 

Anyone with these symptoms should avoid close contact with others and call NHS 111 or their local sexual health centre. 

NHS England will give details shortly on how eligible people can get a jab. The NHS have asked that people do not come forward until contacted. 
 
For more information and updates, please visit the Gov UK webpage on monkeypox. 
 
Let’s help get the outbreak under control so we can all have a safe and happy pride season.