Patients with severe monkeypox can be contagious for up to 10 WEEKS, scientists warn

A study by the Lancet Infectious Diseases showed a man with monkeypox in the UK was discharged from hospital after 39 days – only to have the rash return six weeks later

According to scientists, patients with severe monkeypox can be contagious for up to 10 weeks.

A study published by the Lancet Infectious Diseases analyzed seven cases of the virus in the UK between 2018 and 2021.

Research showed a man in his 40s tested positive over 70 days after first showing symptoms of the disease.

One of the authors of the study, Dr. Hugh Adler, of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, said: “It remains positive in the throat and blood for the duration of the illness and perhaps even longer after the rash has cleared.

“We don’t know that this means these patients are more contagious or longer contagious, but it does inform us about the biology of the disease.”

The patient, in his 40s, was hospitalized for 39 days before being discharged, only for the rash to return a month and a half later. He also suffered from swollen lymph nodes.

The revelation comes after health officials confirmed 14 more cases of monkeypox in England, bringing the total to 70 since May 7.

Scotland confirmed its first case on Monday, totaling 71 in the UK. No cases have been identified in Wales or Northern Ireland.

Health officials stressed the risk to the UK population “remains low” but urged anyone with an unusual rash or lesion on any part of their body to contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service.

dr Susan Hopkins, UKHSA’s senior medical adviser, said: “We continue to promptly identify further cases of monkeypox in England through our extensive surveillance and contact tracing networks, our vigilant NHS services and thanks to those who come forward with symptoms.

“If anyone suspects they may have a rash or lesions on any part of their body, particularly if they have recently had a new sexual partner, they should limit their contact with others and contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service as soon as possible turn. However, please call ahead before attending in person.”

UKHSA teams have been tracing high-risk contacts of people with a confirmed case and are advising contacts to isolate for 21 days.

It also offers close contacts a smallpox vaccine to reduce the risk of symptoms and serious illness.