What is Mpox and why are cases rising in Europe?
October 27, 2025
UK health officials are sounding the alarm as a new strain of mpox, “clade Ib,” shows signs of spreading across Europe. Although infections remain few, the emergence of this variant highlights the ongoing vulnerability of sexual networks, particularly among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The UK Health Security Agency is urging vaccination, emphasizing that existing vaccines—while untested against clade Ib—are expected to provide protection. With major Pride events approaching, vaccination is both a personal safeguard and a collective responsibility to prevent another outbreak. Vigilance and proactive immunization remain the strongest tools against mpox resurgence.
The emergence of a new mpox strain, “clade Ib,” in parts of Europe has reignited public health concerns and underscored the critical importance of vaccination. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a small number of related cases in several European countries and the United States, warning that this variant could gain local traction. Although mpox is often mild, it can cause severe illness—and early intervention remains vital.
The UKHSA is urging gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) to ensure they are vaccinated before attending upcoming Winter Pride events and other social gatherings. This group remains at higher risk due to patterns of close physical contact and sexual networks that facilitated rapid spread during the 2022 global outbreak of clade II mpox. While the vaccine has not been specifically tested against clade Ib, health officials expect it to offer meaningful protection given its proven effectiveness against similar strains.
This latest development is a reminder that infectious disease control relies not only on scientific preparedness but also on community engagement. Public health agencies and advocacy organizations, such as the Terrence Higgins Trust, play a pivotal role in bridging these efforts—encouraging vaccination, dispelling stigma, and ensuring equitable access to care.
As Europe heads into festival season, complacency could erode the progress made since 2022. The mpox vaccine remains available through sexual health services in the UK, typically in two doses administered 28 days apart. Taking proactive steps now—getting vaccinated, staying informed, and maintaining awareness—can prevent broader transmission and protect community health. This moment calls for solidarity and responsibility: the lessons of the last outbreak must guide our response to the next one.