UK identifies 4 cases of new mpox variant, the first cluster outside Africa
November 6, 2024
British health officials have identified four cases of the new, more infectious mpox variant, marking the first cluster outside Africa. After the initial travel-related case, three household contacts tested positive. While officials emphasize low public risk, this variant is concerning as it causes milder, less noticeable symptoms, potentially facilitating spread. The outbreak coincides with WHO's allocation of 899,900 vaccine doses to nine African countries, where 43,000 suspected cases and over 1,000 deaths have been reported, mostly in Congo. Similar travel-related cases have appeared in Sweden, India, Germany, and Thailand.
British health authorities have confirmed the first cluster of the new mpox variant outside Africa, highlighting the virus's evolving transmission patterns.
Key Developments:
1. UK Situation:
- Four total cases identified
- One initial travel-related case
- Three household contact cases
- All receiving hospital treatment in London
- First non-African cluster
2. Variant Characteristics:
- More infectious than previous strains
- Milder symptoms
- Harder to detect
- Easier transmission
- Originated in eastern Congo
3. Global Context:
- WHO declared emergency in August
- Travel cases in multiple countries:
* Sweden
* India
* Germany
* Thailand
- 43,000 suspected African cases
- Over 1,000 deaths reported
4. Response Measures:
- WHO allocating 899,900 vaccines
- Nine African countries receiving doses
- Hospital isolation procedures
- Contact tracing
- Public health monitoring
5. Historical Context:
- UK recorded 3,000+ cases in 2022
- Previous outbreak affected 100+ countries
- Different variant involved
- Different transmission patterns
Health officials maintain the risk to the general public remains low while emphasizing continued vigilance.