Have you got an unusual rash?

Thursday 19 May 2022

Islanders are being urged to keep an eye out for any new rashes – especially down below – after nine cases of monkeypox were discovered in England.

Symptoms of the virus, which spreads through close contact between individuals, include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion, as well as a rash.

The rash usually begins on the face, before spreading to other areas of the body, including the genitals.

Recent cases in England have no travel links to a country where monkeypox is endemic, so it is possible that the infections occurred through community transition.

While Jersey currently has no cases, the island's Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley, is nonetheless warning islanders to keep on alert.

While he explained that the monkeypox doesn't spread easily and that most people experience only mild symptoms and recover in a few weeks, Professor Bradley noted that "severe illness can occur in some individuals."

Pictured: Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley.

He added: "Monkeypox has not been described as a sexually transmitted infection, although it can be passed on by direct contact during sex.

"While we do not have any cases in Jersey, it's prudent to remind Islanders to be alert to any unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia.

"Any Islander who is concerned about a newly developed unusual rashes or lesions should contact their GP or the GUM (sexual health) clinic."

Islanders can contact the sexual health clinic by calling 01534 442856 or emailing s.h@gov.je.