Mpox cases due to monkeypox virus clade Ib in UK
November 7, 2024
While Ireland reports no cases of clade Ia or Ib mpox, the UK has confirmed four cases of clade Ib, including three household contacts of an initial travel-related case. Ireland maintains low clade IIb cases (17 in 2024), with successful vaccination of over 5,000 people. The European risk remains low for the general population but moderate for close contacts of cases from affected African regions. Ireland has sufficient vaccine supplies through EU procurement and continues monitoring the situation. Previous vaccination or infection protects against severe illness from clade Ib, with no boosters currently recommended. Travel advice emphasizes awareness of symptoms and risk levels in destination countries.
As global mpox concerns rise with new variants, Ireland maintains vigilant monitoring while reporting no cases of the more severe clades.
Current Situation:
1. Irish Context:
- No clade Ia/Ib cases detected
- 17 clade IIb cases in 2024
- 13 cases in 2023, 227 in 2022
- Successful vaccination program with 11,000+ doses delivered
- 5,000+ people fully vaccinated
2. European Developments:
- UK reports four clade Ib cases
- Germany and Sweden report travel-related cases
- ECDC assesses low general population risk
- Moderate risk for close contacts
- International monitoring ongoing
3. Vaccination Status:
- Sufficient supplies through EU procurement
- Previous vaccination protects against severe illness
- No booster shots currently recommended
- New program under consideration
- Strong European vaccination performance
4. Travel Guidance:
- Risk levels vary by destination
- Healthcare workers at moderate risk
- Immunocompromised at high risk
- Close contact increases risk
- Emphasis on symptom awareness
5. Response Measures:
- Continued international collaboration
- Healthcare system preparation
- Rapid case identification protocols
- Secondary transmission prevention
- Regular situation monitoring
Ireland maintains a strong public health response while adapting to evolving global circumstances.