Symptoms include a rash that forms blisters and then crusts over, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

[2] Diagnosis can be confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing a lesion for the virus's DNA.

Some monitors saw community transmission taking place in the London area as of mid-May,[9] but it has been suggested that cases were already spreading in Europe in the previous months.

It is believed to be transmitted by close contact with sick people, with extra caution for those individuals with lesions on their skin or genitals, along with their bedding and clothing.

[11] Symptoms such as fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes or lesions are fairly common.

By July 6, 800 Montrealers had lined up at the clinic in the center of the Gay Village that was offering the initial vaccination.