Mpox: Warning over ‘highly infectious’ new variant identified in Congo
March 6, 2025
A new mutated variant of Clade 1a Mpox, carrying the APOBEC3 mutation, has been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), raising concerns about increased transmissibility. Although less deadly than earlier Clade 1a strains, this variant appears highly infectious, with cases already detected in the UK. In response, a vaccination campaign was launched in Kinshasa to curb the spread, particularly in high-risk areas like Pakadjuma. However, USAID funding cuts and escalating conflict in eastern DRC have severely impacted containment efforts. Experts are calling for urgent international support for testing, vaccination, and public health education to prevent further global spread.
A new variant of Clade 1a Mpox, featuring the APOBEC3 mutation, has been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), raising serious public health concerns due to its potentially higher transmissibility. While this strain appears less fatal than earlier Clade 1a forms, it is believed to spread more easily, with cases already detected in the UK.
Experts warn that immediate international action is needed to prevent further outbreaks. Professor Mike Weekes of Cambridge University has emphasized the need for a coordinated global response, including expanded testing, vaccination efforts, and public awareness campaigns. Despite ongoing Mpox outbreaks involving Clade 1b, the rising transmissibility of this new Clade 1a variant presents an even greater challenge.
In response, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has launched a vaccination campaign in Kinshasa, focusing on high-risk areas like Pakadjuma. The initiative, supported by Médecins Sans Frontières, has seen strong community participation, with residents lining up for vaccines.
However, containment efforts are being severely hindered by USAID funding cuts under the Trump administration and escalating violence in eastern DRC. The loss of critical financial and logistical support has weakened testing, treatment, and disease surveillance capabilities, heightening the risk of further spread.
With over 2,000 Mpox cases recorded in 2025, health officials stress the urgent need for global intervention. The World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored that international cooperation is crucial to preventing a repeat of past global Mpox outbreaks, such as the Clade 2b epidemic in 2022. Without immediate action, this new Clade 1a variant could escalate into a far-reaching public health emergency.