PHA statement following WHO declaration of mpox outbreak as PHEIC

Following the declaration by the World Health Organization of an outbreak and rapid spread of a new strain of mpox in some African countries as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the Public Health Agency (PHA) is liaising with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to ensure appropriate measures are in place to manage cases and reduce the risk of spread should cases be identified in the United Kingdom.

The risk to the Northern Ireland population is currently low. However, planning is under way to prepare for any cases that we might see in Northern Ireland. This includes ensuring clinicians are aware and able to recognise cases promptly, that testing is available, and that protocols are put in place for the safe clinical care of people who have the infection and for the prevention of onward transmission.

The PHA will continue to work with our public health counterparts across the UK and Republic of Ireland to make sure we are able to respond should we see a case in Northern Ireland. 

Common symptoms of mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions which can last two to four weeks. It also can cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.

The infection can be passed on through contact with someone who has the infection or with infected animals.

People are advised to follow the health advice on mpox, which is available at www.nhs.uk/conditions/mpox/