A case series published in ‘The New England Journal of Medicine,’ identified new clinical symptoms of monkeypox infection that will aid future diagnosis and slow the spread of infection. The study conducted by researchers from the Queen Mary University of London found that the virus affects gay and bisexual men in 98% of the cases. Although sexual closeness is the most likely route of transmission, the researchers emphasized that the virus can be transmitted through large respiratory droplets, clothing, and other surfaces through close contact.

The study identified single lesions, mouth sores, and anal sores as the new symptoms of monkeypox infection that are similar to those of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They also found that anal or oral symptoms have resulted in hospitalization for pain management and swallowing difficulties. As a result, the study emphasized the need to diagnose people from the at-risk groups when they present traditional STI symptoms.

Dr. John Thornhill, Consultant Physician in Sexual Health and HIV at Barts NHS Health Trust and Clinical Senior Lecturer at the Queen Mary University of London, stated that monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted infection but it can be acquired through any kind of close contact.

(Source: https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/diagnostics/new-clinical-symptoms-in-confirmed-monkeypox-cases-identified/93044587 )