“Highly probable” Monkeypox case identified in Jersey

Saturday 23 July 2022

People in Jersey are being contact-traced and offered vaccinations after a “highly probable case” of Monkeypox was identified in the island.

The Government said the process of tracking down contacts was “nearing completion”.

It follows a global rise in cases of the disease, which usually presents in the form of unusual spots or blisters.

The new Health Minister, Deputy Karen Wilson, said she was “not surprised that we have eventually seen our first probable case” given the global picture.

“Monkeypox is still, nevertheless, a rare infectious disease and the risk of transmission is low. Most cases are mild and can be treated at home,” she added. 

“We have been proactively working with the UK to get additional stocks of vaccine against the disease, and they have arrived on island, which is excellent news.

“We have sufficient stocks to vaccinate all contacts." 

Anyone who is concerned they may have Monkeypox should avoid physical contact with others and call their GP or the GUM helpline on 01534 442856.

What are the symptoms?

• Recent unexpected or unusual spots, ulcers or blisters anywhere on your body

• Fever 

• Headaches

• Muscle aches 

• Chills and exhaustion

• Swollen glands

More information can be found HERE.

Pictured top: Images of Monkeypox cases courtesy of the UK Health Security Agency, NHS England and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control/WHO.