The unusual outbreaks of monkeypox in Europe are a cause for concern: British doctors are already concerned about potential implications for medical care for sexually transmitted diseases and fertility treatments. Doctors and nurses who come into contact with infected people should isolate themselves, Claire Dewsnap, head of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, said Saturday. So it is difficult to provide good sexual health services while controlling the virus at the same time.
In London, clinics would no longer offer “walk-in” treatment, the BBC reported, meaning patients would have to call ahead and describe their symptoms before getting an appointment. Some employees have already been vaccinated against smallpox. Even if the vaccine isn’t specifically targeted for the monkeypox virus, it should provide some protection, especially against more serious illnesses.
‘No worries about infections’
The infections would increase the pressure on the already heavily burdened staff, Dewsnap told the British broadcaster. “I am not worried about infections and the consequences for those affected,” said the head of the association. “But I am concerned about our ability to maintain good sexual health services and access for all while controlling this new infection.”
She called for more financial support. “Financing from the GGD budget has fallen sharply over the past ten years.” As a result, there is now less staff and fewer opportunities to treat patients.
“Apparent Sexual Transmissibility”
Pandemic expert Peter Horby of the University of Oxford was amazed at the spread of monkeypox. Horby told the BBC it was an “unusual situation” as the virus was being transmitted outside of West and Central Africa. There is “apparently an element of sexual transmission,” Horby said, noting that the virus had mainly been found in gay or bisexual men.
Twenty cases of monkey pox have been confirmed in the UK so far. Cases have also been found in other countries such as Germany, Spain, France, Sweden, Australia and the US and the virus has not yet been detected in Austria. The World Health Organization (WHO) had called for a rigorous follow-up of all contacts of those affected. Clinics and the public should be made aware of the symptoms.
Source: Krone

I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.