Concerns have been raised about whether the monkeypox virus could impact upcoming overseas holidays, a travel insurance provider has revealed.
Travellers are actively seeking confirmation on where they stand should their holiday plans be ruined, according to Holidaysafe.
The total of UK cases has risen to 179, although the risk to the population is low.
New UK Health Security Agency advice recommends that anyone who has had direct or household contact with a confirmed monkeypox case should isolate for 21 days.
Contacts are advised to provide their details for contact tracing, forgo travel, and avoid contact with immunosuppressed people, pregnant women, and children under 12.
Anyone with a confirmed infection is now being advised to abstain from sex while they have symptoms.
UKHSA, senior medical advisor and monkeypox strategic response director, Dr Ruth Milton, said: “This new monkeypox guidance sets out important measures for healthcare professionals and the public for managing the disease including how to safely isolate at home and reduce the risk to others.
“The highest risk of transmission is through direct contact with someone with monkeypox.
“The risk to the UK population remains low and anyone with unusual rashes or lesions on any part of their body should immediately contact NHS 111 or their local sexual health service.”
Holidaysafe confirmed that it would include protection against cancellation and curtailment if individuals fall seriously ill with monkeypox and are unable to travel or be legally required to isolate, provided the matter can be certified by a medical practitioner.
It comes as travellers take a more cautious approach to holidays and travel insurance protection, given that many were caught out by Covid-19 by not having the right cover in place, according to the company
Brand manager Sarah Page said: “We’re seeing travellers taking interest in their cover and actively making sure their policies match their holiday needs. While this is a good thing, it’s important we offer them the cover they need.
“The pandemic has given us a lot of insight into dealing with the unexpected and we are ready to react accordingly.
“Right now, there is only a handful of confirmed monkeypox cases here in the UK.
“While we hope the number of cases stays limited, our team remains committed to monitoring the case rates.
“And, if necessary, will aim to adjust our policies to be aligned with the government’s guidance to make sure we continue to match our cover to what customers need.”