Monkeypox and gay men 

Recently, the UK Health Security Agency and chief medical adviser(s) have reported there are higher cases of Monkeypox amongst men who have sex with men in North America and Europe. Initial concerns are that the general population is under educated and is not familiar with the symptoms or how Monkeypox cases are increasing. Sexual health clinics in London and other large cities are reporting cases of Monkeypox. Health authorities believe that men who have sex with men are at a higher risk for Monkeypox infection and transmission.  

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that is closely related to smallpox that most people recover from. It is found primarily in tropical regions of Africa, and is believed to be transmitted to humans from contact with infected animals, most commonly monkeys and rodents. The disease is characterised by a distinctive unusual rashes or lesions, swollen lymph nodes, especially their genitalia, which progresses from small bumps to large blisters filled with fluid. Monkeypox can be severe, and in some cases it can be fatal. There is no specific treatment for the virus, and it can take up to four weeks for the symptoms to resolve. In order to prevent the spread of monkeypox, it is important to avoid contact with infected animals and to wash hands thoroughly after coming into contact with any potential sources of the virus. 

Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling has experience counselling gay and bisexual men who report the being infected with this new disease. Their mental and physical distress is understandable. The mental side effects of this disease range from negative thoughts about their self-worth, negative emotions, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, and existential issues about the direction of their life. If you are infected and struggling to cope, counselling can help. Therapists at Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling can offer you a complimentary consultation today.  

Transmission of Monkeypox: UK Health Security Agency 

Monkeypox cases are usually spread through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected animal, such as a monkey, rat, or squirrel now also appears to be spreading through sexual intercourse. It can also be spread through very close contact with an infected person, although this is less common. There is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, but the virus can be prevented through vaccination. 

Symptoms of Monkeypox: Sexual Health Service

Sexual health service(s) in the UK, Europe and North America are reporting higher cases of Monkeypox. It now appears to also be a new sexually transmitted infection in the UK population. This infectious disease spreads through sexual networks, especially those men who have unprotected sex with other men. The first signs of the disease are usually fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion, which can last for two to four days. Further symptoms are unusual rashes or lesions starting on the face and progress to the rest of the body, especially their genitalia. The unusual rashes or lesions starts as small red bumps that eventually turn into blister-like lesions. In severe cases, Monkeypox can lead to pneumonia, serious skin infections, and even death. There is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, but patients can receive supportive care to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for the best possible outcome. 

Gay Men, Monkeypox, and health officials

Though historically understudied, the incidence of Monkeypox in gay men is on the rise. A 2019 study found that of the patients surveyed, nearly a third identified as homosexual or bisexual. This is especially concerning given that Monkeypox can be transmitted via sexual contact. The same study found that the transmission rates among this population are relatively high, with 40% of participants reporting at least one sexual partner who had been diagnosed with Monkeypox. While more research is needed to understand the full extent of this trend, it is clear that gay men are at an increased risk for contracting Monkeypox. With no vaccine currently available, it is important for members of this community to take precautions to protect themselves from infection. This includes abstaining from sexual activity or taking steps to reduce the number of sexual partners. If engaging in sex, using condoms and other barrier methods can also help to reduce the risk of transmission. By increasing awareness of this issue and taking appropriate precautions, we can help to prevent the spread of Monkeypox among gay men and other vulnerable populations. 

Specialist infectious disease units: How is Monkeypox spread? 

Monkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. The disease is found primarily in Central and West Africa, where it affects both humans and animals. Monkeypox is typically spread to humans from infected animals, such as monkeys, rats, and squirrels. The virus can also be spread from human to human, though this is less common. Transmission usually occurs through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, saliva, or mucus. In some cases, the virus can also be spread through the airborne route.  

Although Monkeypox is typically spread through contact with the infected animal's bodily fluids, such as blood or saliva, the disease can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, for example, if you sharing bedding or clothing, or if you have sex with them. 

Who is most at risk for Monkeypox? 

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of Monkeypox cases have occurred in Africa, where the illness is endemic. However, sporadic outbreaks have also been reported in other parts of the world, including the United States. The CDC notes that Monkeypox primarily affects people who have not been vaccinated against smallpox. Additionally, people who live in or travel to areas where the virus is present may be at increased risk for infection.  

Treatment for Monkeypox 

There is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, but supportive care can help to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Vaccination against smallpox can also help to protect against Monkeypox. In the event of an outbreak, strict isolation measures may be necessary to prevent the spread of the disease. 

Treatment for Monkeypox typically includes supportive care and the administration of antiviral medications. In severe cases, patients may require hospitalisation. Early treatment can help to lessen the severity of the illness. Anyone who has been exposed to an infected animal should seek medical attention immediately. With prompt treatment, most patients recover from Monkeypox without any long-term effects. 

Prevention of Monkeypox 

Gay men or bisexual men should take precaution to prevent the spread of Monkeypox through the use of condoms. There is no specific treatment for Monkeypox, but the virus can be prevented by vaccination. The smallpox vaccine is effective against Monkeypox and is recommended for people who are at risk of exposure to the virus. In addition, good hygiene practices can help to prevent the spread of Monkeypox. Regular hand-washing, for example, can reduce the risk of transmission. By taking these measures, it is possible to prevent the spread of Monkeypox and protect both human and non-human populations from this potentially deadly virus. 

Conclusion 

Gay and bisexual men are at higher risk for sexually transmitted infections than other populations. Those within this population should understand the symptoms and learn how to take proper precautions to prevent infection with Monkeypox and its transmission. North American and European gay and bisexual men are now at increased risk for this disease. Your local sexual health service should be notified if you suspect you have been exposed to Monkeypox or if you experience unusual rashes or lesions. Medical attention is available via your local sexual health clinic. You will need to isolate, as evidence suggests it spreads via direct contact. Autonomous Psychotherapy & Counselling have experience in counselling individuals who have been exposed and infected with Monkeypox. Our therapists are available to support you if, your mental health, or relationship is affected by Monkeypox.