UK Reports Two New Cases of More Transmissible Mpox Strain

Health officials have reported the identification of two additional cases of a novel mpox virus strain in London. These individuals are household contacts of the initial patient. Both new cases are receiving specialized medical attention at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. All three patients have been diagnosed with the Clade 1b variant of the virus, a strain initially identified in central Africa, which exhibits a higher propensity for human-to-human transmission. Prof Susan Hopkins, the chief medical adviser for the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), stated that mpox, previously known as monkeypox, possesses the capability to disseminate rapidly within residential settings, making additional infections “not unexpected.” She affirmed, “The overall risk to the UK population remains low.” Prof. Hopkins added, “We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread.” The UKHSA indicated that these individuals would be provided with testing and vaccination services as required. Mpox typically spreads via close physical interaction, and its transmission within a single household does not signify its presence in the broader UK community. The UKHSA previously announced the initial Clade 1b mpox case in London last week. This patient had recently traveled to at least one African nation experiencing outbreaks and developed symptoms 24 hours following their return flight. The patient experienced flu-like symptoms on 22 October, followed by the appearance of a rash two days subsequent to that date. An mpox rash, characterized by pus-filled lesions, can persist for a duration of up to one month. Additional symptoms associated with the illness encompass fever, headaches, and diminished energy levels. Laboratory analyses verified the infection as Clade 1b. This particular viral form has become a source of increasing apprehension. This variant demonstrates a seemingly greater ease of person-to-person transmission via physical contact, such as kissing and sexual activity, compared to other mpox strains. The virus is also believed to be capable of entering the human body through the respiratory tract, for instance, via close conversation or breathing near an infected individual. The World Health Organization designated mpox a global health emergency during the summer months. Within Africa this year, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Burundi, and Rwanda have each documented instances of the novel Clade 1b strain. The UK, Sweden, India, and Germany have all identified infections that are associated with travel to nations experiencing outbreaks. This current outbreak is distinct from the one in 2022, known as Clade II, which predominantly impacted gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Infections from Clade II continue to occur, albeit at low frequencies. This material is copyrighted by BBC in 2024. All rights are reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external internet sites. Details concerning their policy on external links are available.