Nottingham virologist says we shouldn't be worried about the Monkeypox outbreak
Professor Jonathan Ball from the University of Nottingham has made the comments as UK cases climb to 57
A Nottinghamshire virologist has said that people should remain calm after confirmed cases of Monkeypox surpassed fifty across the UK.
Anyone at the highest risk of catching the virus- which is usually seen in Western and Central Africa- is being advised to isolate for three weeks.
But experts are keen to reassure the public that the risk of catching Monkeypox remains “very low.”
Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, has told Gem that preparations are already in place for any outbreak.
“We know that the vaccine is effective at preventing transmission, and it can even be given after someone was exposed. But one of the biggest weapons we have is contact tracing.
“We know that the incubation period is between one and three weeks. And, therefore, if you become exposed to the virus, it will take that period of time to start developing symptoms. If you isolate yourself for that period, then it’s safe to say that you have not passed on the infection.
“It’s one of the ways that we control infectious diseases. That’s what we did at the start of COVID before we had a vaccine.”
A statement by the UK Health Security Agency’s admitted that the outbreak is “significant and concerning.”
And Professor Ball agrees that measures need to be taken to try and prevent more transmission across the country.
“It is a potentially dangerous virus; we think particularly to children. And, therefore, it is important that we stamp this virus out. We think this virus transmits through large droplets. Usually, you must be within a metre of one person to pass it on. It’s these droplets which spread the virus.”
Downing Street has confirmed that there are no plans currently to impose any travel bans to combat the outbreak.