Are there risks for immunosuppressed and Monkeypox?

27 May 2022

It is an evolving situation but at the moment doesn’t seem to be anything to worry about. The number of cases are likely to be under 10,000.

We will be monitoring the advice from the UKHSA.

There doesn’t appear to be a greater risk at the moment to those who are immunosuppressed. Anyone who does show more severe symptoms will be likely referred to an infectious diseases unit, especially if they are immunosuppressed.

For more information on the disease and what symptoms to look out for, please visit the official NHS website.

What you should know:

• It’s a viral illness so you should follow all the precautions you would use for any viral illness like chickenpox or shingles.
• Immediately contact your GP or call 111 if you think you have come into contact with someone with the virus or developed symptoms.
• You may be prescribed antivirals.
• You may be advised to stop taking your biologic medication.

IF you are offered a vaccine, please do highlight if you are on biologic therapy.