The first cases of local transmission of mpox, or monkeypox, in the World Health Organization (WHO) European region have been confirmed in the United Kingdom, the WHO regional office for Europe in a press release. Although the risk to the population remains low, the organization invites member states to prepare a rapid action plan to contain the emergence of a new strain of the virus: clade Ib.
The United Kingdom has confirmed two new cases of mpox clade Ib. Both live in the same household as a person who tested positive shortly after traveling to several African countries.
“These are the first cases of local transmission of clade Ib in the WHO European region and, in fact, the first cases outside of Africa since a public health emergency of international concern was declared for the second time in August 2024,” it is specified in the press release.
Mpox: the new variant is transmitted mainly between humans, shows a study
WHO regional director Hans Kluge praised the UK for its rapid response, “clear and transparent” communication and data sharing. He also called on the 53 member states of the organization’s European region to follow his recommendations and strengthen surveillance to prevent transmission. “Together we can stop the spread of mpox,” he said.
Mpox is a viral disease that spreads from animals to humans, but is also transmitted between humans, causing fever, muscle pain and skin lesions.
The virus is spread from person to person, primarily through close physical contact.
More than 1,000 people had already lost their lives as of November 1 in Africa.
Belgium
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