This weekend sees the return of Manchester Pride – which will see the streets celebrate and the city come alive.

But, many have concerns in relation to Monkeypox which has been in the news. Some will have been vaccinated but because of challenges myths have started to arise.

We want to offer you an expert from the LGBT Foundation – the leading voice on Monkeypox in the North to give you the details you need to know to have a fantastic – and worry-free – pride.

Lauren Duffy, head of Sexual Health at LGBT Foundation said “One of the best tools we have in the fight against monkeypox is knowledge. People don’t need to panic, and up to date and accurate information can help people feel less worried. Perhaps spend today thinking about all of the things you need to get sorted for pride everything from what to wear, who to see, and finding out what you need to know when it comes to Monkeypox.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral infection that is usually spread by animals. It has been shown to spread amongst people during very close contact. It is rare in the UK, but currently, there are a number of cases, mainly in men who have sex with men.

This is not a sexually transmitted infection.

How is it spread?

Monkeypox is spread through skin-to-skin or close contact, which means it can be passed on during sex, but it is not known to be sexually transmitted. It can be passed on by touching bedding, towels, or clothes used by somebody with a rash caused by monkeypox, or rarely through coughs and sneezes of a person with monkeypox.

How common is it?

So far in Manchester (data not available for GM) there have been 56 cases. Across England there have been 3050.

What should you do if you think you might have Monkeypox?

It’s easy – stay home and call 111 who will advise you what to do next.

What should you do you have tested positive for Monkeypox?

Don’t go to pride. Yes, it sucks – but there will be other prides.

Instead, join in with loads of online events. We know it isn’t the same – but we need to look after each other and you’ll be back again soon!

What should you do if your friend can’t come to Pride?

They will find it hard – so call them each day. Just check in. Don’t text – just give them a quick call as it will let them know you are thinking about them.

Organise a get together for you and your friends after pride. Find something cool to do (some suggestions below) – but start the organisation of it during pride. In short, show them that you miss them – and that you are doing something to be together when you can.

That will make a huge difference to the way they feel.

Finally, try not to share lots of pictures and videos on group messages as this could make them feel like they are missing out.

How can you stay safe this Pride?

We’ve all had lots of rules over the last few years – but knowing the key information about Monkeypox and how to stay safe will protect you and those around.

Some advice includes;

1. Get contact details for your sexual partners so you can get in touch later if anybody suspects they’ve got monkeypox.
2. Keep it clean by ensuring you thoroughly wash both before and as soon as possible after, ensuring you don’t share towels.
3. Be kind and remember that if you see somebody with spots or sores on their skin, it’s not necessarily monkeypox. Lots of other skin conditions can look similar, and may not be infectious. If you suspect somebody else has symptoms and you talk to them about it, be respectful and don’t make judgements.
4. Mix it up! Think about how you can reduce contact – perhaps now is the time to try out some clothed role-play or that glory hole fantasy. What about some new sex positions that aren’t face to face?
5. Stay informed and stick to trusted information to understand what you should be watching out for. Not everyone with monkeypox has the same symptoms – some people might not have a rash but still be able to pass on the infection. If you’re feeling unwell in general or have a fever, wait until you’re feeling better.