YAY Cork: ‘Anyone can contract it’ – Cork health centre slams monkeypox stigma as cases climb

‘Anyone can contract it.’

A local health centre is reminding the public that monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted disease and can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender or sexuality.

While many of the monkeypox cases reported across the globe thus far have affected gay and bisexual men, Cork Sexual Health Centre is using its social media channels to highlight that monkeypox is a viral infection that can spread from person to person through all types of very close contact.

“While monkeypox is disproportionately affecting gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men, anyone is at risk.” the centre shared on Instagram.

“As with COVID and other viruses, no one is at fault for contracting monkeypox. You have nothing to be ashamed of.” The World Health Organisation has declared monkeypox a global health emergency, warning that the threat is high in Europe.

According to the latest figures from Health Protection Surveillance Centre, more than 100 cases of monkeypox have now been identified in Ireland.

“Public health risk assessments have been undertaken, and those who were in contact with the cases are being advised on what to do in the event that they become ill,” an HPSC statement read.

If you are worried you may have symptoms of monkeypox, including fever, chills, muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes, contact your GP.