A case of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, linked to an outbreak in parts of Africa has been detected in the UK. The infection is part of the Clade 1b strain, which is known for its ability to spread more easily through close physical contact. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the patient, who returned from a holiday in Africa, is being treated in London. Health authorities are taking swift action to trace and monitor the patient’s close contacts to minimize the risk of further transmission.
Mpox Clade 1b Detected in the UK
The UK patient, who had recently traveled to an affected African country, developed flu-like symptoms on October 22, followed by a characteristic mpox rash two days later. They are now receiving treatment at the Royal Free Hospital in London, within a specialized unit for high-consequence infectious diseases. Laboratory testing confirmed the infection as Clade 1b, a strain that appears to spread more easily between people compared to other types of mpox.
“This is the first time we have detected this clade of mpox in the UK, though other cases have been confirmed abroad,” said Prof Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA. Hopkins noted that the risk to the UK population remains low, and that the agency is actively tracing close contacts to reduce any potential spread. This is thought to involve fewer than 10 individuals, including housemates.
Increased Global Monitoring of Clade 1b Mpox
Clade 1b mpox has raised concern globally due to its ability to spread more readily through close physical contact, including sexual transmission. Unlike Clade 1a, which is more often linked to exposure to infected animals or bush meat, Clade 1b has been predominantly reported in human-to-human transmissions. This strain has been reported in multiple African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Burundi, and Rwanda, with cases also detected in Sweden, India, and Germany, often linked to travel.
Despite its increased transmissibility, Clade 1b appears milder than Clade 1a, though tracking the exact number of cases remains challenging due to limited data. Symptoms typically include fever, headaches, and a rash of pus-filled lesions that can last for up to a month, potentially causing fatigue and low energy levels.
Government and Health Agencies Mobilize Response
The UK government, in coordination with the UKHSA and NHS, has ramped up efforts to prevent potential transmission. Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the importance of safeguarding public health and limiting the risk of an outbreak. “The government is working alongside UKHSA and the NHS to protect the public and prevent transmission,” Streeting said, highlighting steps taken to secure vaccines and equip healthcare professionals with the necessary guidance and tools to respond effectively to any cases.
This incident is separate from the Clade II mpox outbreak that primarily affected gay, bisexual, and other men-who-have-sex-with-men in 2022, where cases remain at low levels. However, the Clade 1b detection underscores the importance of continued vigilance and international cooperation to address mpox risks.
The detection of Clade 1b mpox in the UK serves as a reminder of the global health community’s need to monitor and respond quickly to emerging infections. While the risk to the broader population is currently low, UK health authorities are actively tracing contacts and implementing preventative measures to mitigate any spread. As mpox cases emerge in various countries, vigilance and preparedness remain key to ensuring effective public health responses.