Britain detects two more cases of new mpox variant
November 4, 2024
Britain has confirmed two additional cases of mpox clade Ib in household contacts of the first travel-related case, bringing the total to three. While UKHSA maintains the risk remains low, this variant is causing global concern, having triggered WHO's August emergency declaration. The strain, considered more severe than clade II, has also appeared in Germany, Sweden, India, and Thailand. Africa faces a severe outbreak with over 48,000 suspected cases and 1,048 deaths across 19 countries, marking a 500% increase from last year. The virus spreads through close physical contact, including sexual transmission.
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Britain's health authorities have confirmed two new cases of the mpox clade Ib variant, highlighting the continued spread of this more severe strain.
Key Developments:
1. UK Situation:
- Three total confirmed cases
- Two new cases in same household
- First case travel-related
- All patients under specialist care
- Low risk to general population
2. Variant Characteristics:
- Clade Ib more severe than clade II
- Linked to WHO emergency declaration
- Spreads through close contact
- Causes flu-like symptoms
- Produces pus-filled lesions
3. Global Spread:
- Cases reported in:
* Germany
* Sweden
* India
* Thailand
- Different from 2022's clade II outbreak
- Household transmission confirmed
4. African Outbreak:
- 48,000+ suspected cases
- 1,048 deaths reported
- 19 countries affected
- 500% increase from previous year
- Significant public health challenge
5. Healthcare Response:
- Specialist care provided
- Healthcare professionals prepared
- Monitoring systems in place
- Contact tracing ongoing
- Prevention measures implemented
The situation demonstrates the global nature of the mpox threat while highlighting the importance of surveillance and rapid response systems.
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