First monkeypox case is identified in Ireland as UK total rises to 106

The first confirmed case of monkeypox has been identified in Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has said. 

The infection was reported in the east of Ireland on Friday evening and the affected person was not kept in hospital. 

Health officials have said a second suspected case is also being investigated.

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 if they become ill. 

In a statement, the 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 was not unexpected following the presence of monkeypox cases in the UK and many European countries,’ it added.