Transmission of monkeypox virus clade I: overall risk remains low in the EU/EEA
January 14, 2025
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports 11 cases of MPXV clade I in the EU/EEA since August 2024, predominantly travel-associated or linked to household contacts. With mild symptoms observed in all cases, the risk of severe outcomes remains low. However, increased transmission in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring areas underscores the need for vigilance. Travelers to affected regions should practice strict hygiene, monitor symptoms for 21 days, and seek healthcare if needed. Awareness campaigns targeting travelers and healthcare providers are critical to early diagnosis, containment, and effective public health responses.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has documented 11 MPXV clade I cases in the EU/EEA since August 2024, with reports from Sweden, Germany, Belgium, and France. Most cases were linked to travel in affected areas or close contact with infected individuals, highlighting the role of international travel and household exposure in transmission. Fortunately, all cases exhibited mild symptoms and achieved full recovery.
The ECDC rapid risk assessment, published in August 2024, identified the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries as major sources of MPXV clade I transmission. It emphasized the potential for travel-associated cases in Europe, especially during periods of heightened international travel. This underscores the importance of raising awareness among travelers, healthcare providers, and the general public about mpox risks, particularly in regions with ongoing virus circulation.
Travelers to affected areas should follow stringent precautions, including practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with potentially infected individuals or animals. Monitoring health during travel and for 21 days post-return is essential for early detection. Symptoms like fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Public health measures such as contact tracing, partner notification, and post-exposure vaccination remain critical tools for containment, particularly for MPXV clade I cases. For close contacts, a 21-day monitoring period post-exposure is advised to ensure timely identification of secondary transmission.
As mpox continues to spread globally, proactive engagement through vaccination campaigns and health education is key. EU/EEA countries must collaborate with affected regions to address the root causes of transmission while bolstering domestic preparedness to safeguard public health and minimize the risk of future outbreaks.