Health
First case of monkeypox confirmed in Ireland | Monkeypox
The first confirmed case of monkeypox in Ireland has been identified, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has said.
The infection was reported in the east of the country on Friday night and the person affected was not kept in hospital.
A further suspected case is also being investigated and test results are being awaited, health officials said.
A public health risk assessment has been carried out and those who have been in contact with the person are being advised on what to do in the event that they become ill.
A statement from HSE said: “The Health Protection Surveillance Centre was notified last night of a confirmed case of monkeypox in Ireland, in the east of the country.
“This person has not been hospitalised. This was not unexpected following the presence of monkeypox cases in the UK and many European countries.
“Public health is following up those who had close contact with the person with monkeypox while they were infectious. In order to maintain patient confidentiality, no further information about this person will be provided.
“A suspected case is also being investigated and test results are awaited. A public health risk assessment has been undertaken and those who were in contact with the person are being advised on what to do in the event that they become ill.”
The UKHSA on Friday announced a further 16 monkeypox cases had been identified in England, bringing the total to 101. To date three cases have been found in Scotland and one each in Wales and Northern Ireland.