Another positive case of monkeypox has been identified in Hertfordshire, health bosses have said.

The county council today (May 31) confirmed there are now two cases in the area after the first was found last week.

A spokesperson said it does not know if they are directly connected.

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As of May 29 the total number of UK cases was 179, with nearly 400 overall identified outside the virus’s usual area of circulation, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

A HCC spokesperson said: “This disease is not specific to any particular gender, sexual orientation or ethnicity and it is most likely to be transmitted via close physical contact.

“We are urging people with a recent history of travel to West Africa and gay and bisexual men to be aware of unusual rashes or lesions, especially on their faces or genitals, and to contact NHS 111 if they have any concerns.”

The infection can be distressing but is mild and rare, they added.

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