The United Kingdom has confirmed two additional cases of the new mpox variant, clade Ib, bringing the nation’s total to three, according to recent reports from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The latest infections were discovered in household contacts of the first case, who had recently traveled to regions in Africa where mpox is endemic.
All three patients are currently receiving specialized medical care at a London hospital.
Despite the emergence of new cases, the UKHSA has moved to reassure the public, stating that the risk to the general population remains low.
“It is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household,” the UKHSA explained in an official statement, emphasizing that mpox typically spreads through close contact within household settings.
The agency also confirmed that healthcare professionals are well-prepared to handle any additional cases that may arise.
This new variant, clade Ib, has gained significant attention since the World Health Organization declared it a global health emergency in August.
The situation in Africa is particularly concerning, with nineteen countries reporting over 48,000 suspected mpox cases and 1,048 deaths in 2023 alone.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has noted a dramatic 500% increase in cases compared to the previous year.
Clade Ib represents a distinct threat from clade II, which was responsible for the 2022 outbreak that primarily affected men who have sex with men.
While both variants can spread through close physical and sexual contact, clade Ib is associated with more severe symptoms, including, flu-like illness, pus-filled lesions, and potentially fatal complications.
The global reach of clade Ib is expanding, with cases now confirmed in multiple countries including, Germany, Sweden, India and Thailand.
