Menu
23/05/2022
PHA Prepares For Possible Monkeypox Cases
The NI Public Health Agency has established a multidisciplinary incident management team (IMT) to respond to potential cases of monkeypox.
There are currently no confirmed cases of monkeypox in Northern Ireland. The PHA is in regular contact with UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) regarding the situation.
Dr Gillian Armstrong, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: "Monkeypox is usually a mild self-limiting illness and most people recover within a few weeks.
"The infection can be passed on through close contact with someone with the infection, or contact with clothing or linens used by a person who has monkeypox.
"However, the virus does not usually spread easily between people and the risk to the Northern Ireland population is considered low."
Anyone who thinks they have been at risk of exposure with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, should contact their local healthcare provider or GUM clinic without delay if they have concerns.
A notable proportion of recent cases in England and Europe have been found in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, so the PHA is particularly encouraging them to be alert to the symptoms and seek help if concerned. We can assure them their call or discussion will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
Clinicians should be alert to individuals presenting with rashes without a clear alternative diagnosis and should contact specialist services for advice.
There are currently no confirmed cases of monkeypox in Northern Ireland. The PHA is in regular contact with UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) regarding the situation.
Dr Gillian Armstrong, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: "Monkeypox is usually a mild self-limiting illness and most people recover within a few weeks.
"The infection can be passed on through close contact with someone with the infection, or contact with clothing or linens used by a person who has monkeypox.
"However, the virus does not usually spread easily between people and the risk to the Northern Ireland population is considered low."
Anyone who thinks they have been at risk of exposure with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body, especially their genitalia, should contact their local healthcare provider or GUM clinic without delay if they have concerns.
A notable proportion of recent cases in England and Europe have been found in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, so the PHA is particularly encouraging them to be alert to the symptoms and seek help if concerned. We can assure them their call or discussion will be treated sensitively and confidentially.
Clinicians should be alert to individuals presenting with rashes without a clear alternative diagnosis and should contact specialist services for advice.
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
26 July 2022
PHA Issues Monkeypox Warning Ahead Of Pride Parade
Ahead of Belfast Pride on 30 July, the Public Health Agency has issued a warning of what those celebrating at the festival should look out for with monkeypox.
PHA Issues Monkeypox Warning Ahead Of Pride Parade
Ahead of Belfast Pride on 30 July, the Public Health Agency has issued a warning of what those celebrating at the festival should look out for with monkeypox.
08 June 2022
All Suspected Monkeypox Cases To Be Reported To The PHA
All suspected cases of monkeypox must be reported to the Public Health Agency, according to NI's chief medical officer. Monkeypox was deemed a notifiable disease from Monday, 07 June, by the Department of Health.
All Suspected Monkeypox Cases To Be Reported To The PHA
All suspected cases of monkeypox must be reported to the Public Health Agency, according to NI's chief medical officer. Monkeypox was deemed a notifiable disease from Monday, 07 June, by the Department of Health.
25 November 2024
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
19 September 2002
Invest NI backs call centre sector at UK show
At this week's Call Centre Expo UK 2002, Invest NI was on call to answer questions from prospective investors who have been attracted by Northern Ireland's growing reputation as a premier location for customer contact centres.
Invest NI backs call centre sector at UK show
At this week's Call Centre Expo UK 2002, Invest NI was on call to answer questions from prospective investors who have been attracted by Northern Ireland's growing reputation as a premier location for customer contact centres.
29 October 2001
Empey welcomes Indian investment
Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment, has welcomed the decision by HCL Technologies Ltd of India to locate the European headquarters of its subsidiary E-Serve in Belfast.
Empey welcomes Indian investment
Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment, has welcomed the decision by HCL Technologies Ltd of India to locate the European headquarters of its subsidiary E-Serve in Belfast.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
