An increase in mpox cases in England has prompted a warning to medics from public health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) told clinicians in a briefing that they need to be aware of certain groups being at particular risk.

In response to a surge in mpox cases across England, public health authorities have issued a cautionary alert to healthcare professionals. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) emphasized the need for medical staff to remain vigilant, particularly regarding certain high-risk groups.

Notably, areas such as London and the North West have experienced an uptick in this viral infection, which manifests as fever, rash, and flu-like symptoms. According to a briefing noted by Pulse Today, the UKHSA is set to renew its guidance directed toward the most vulnerable communities, urge clinicians to stay alert, and enhance vaccination efforts, especially focusing on administering the two recommended doses to those eligible.

As per the official statistics, there were 56 reported cases of mpox clade 2b in England during January.

In the first half of February alone, 47 cases were documented. The infection spreads through close physical contact such as kissing, sex, and cuddling, as well as through exposure to coughs, sneezes, or surfaces touched by someone infected with mpox.

According to the UKHSA’s briefing, the majority of infections are occurring among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

While most cases are identified as clade 2b, there has been an observed increase in clade 1b cases specifically within London.

More severe symptoms are associated with Clade 1b mpox. Clade 2 mpox was behind a global outbreak in 2022. It is believed to be more contagious.

UKHSA’s note says an increase in mpox transmission is still possible although Britain’s “high” coverage of pre-exposure vaccination among eligible people would protect against another large outbreak.

Dr Katy Sinka, Head of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UKHSA, told Pulse Today: “We’re seeing an increase in mpox cases so far in 2026, which is a reminder this unpleasant illness hasn’t gone away.

“If you’re eligible, the mpox vaccine is now available routinely as part of your sexual healthcare alongside STI and HIV testing, screening and other vaccines.

“It’s one of the best ways to protect yourself against mpox and reduces your chances of becoming severely unwell if you do catch it. Make sure to get both doses to get maximum protection.”

It usually takes five to 21 days for the first symptoms of mpox to appear.

These include: a high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery, a headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen glands, shivering, exhaustion and joint pain. Someone with mpox may not get all symptoms.

A rash usually appears one to five days after the first symptoms. It can be on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals and anus. It is also possible to get anal pain or bleeding from your bottom.

Mpox is usually mild and clears within a few weeks, but more severe symptoms may require hospital treatment, according to the NHS.