Sweden has reported its first case of a new variant of mpox, a day after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a global health emergency. The variant, identified as clade 1b, originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This year alone, over 17,000 cases and 571 deaths have been recorded in Africa, surpassing last year’s figures. According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, DR Congo accounts for 96% of these cases and fatalities.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that there are no current cases of the virus in the UK. Dr Meera Chand, the agency’s deputy director, stated that the risk is “currently considered low.” However, preparations are underway to handle potential cases. These preparations include educating clinicians on recognising symptoms, ensuring rapid testing availability, and developing protocols for safe clinical care and preventing transmission.
Mpox, previously called monkeypox, spreads through close physical contact. Symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle and back pain, and a rash. Dr Jean Kaseya, director general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, noted that 16 African countries have reported cases, including Ivory Coast, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. He emphasised the need to declare a public health emergency to protect and support affected countries. WHO considers the strain potentially capable of becoming a pandemic.
Sweden’s Health Minister Jakob Forssmed announced on Thursday that a case of the clade 1b strain was detected in the country. The individual contracted the virus during a stay in Africa.
By the end of July 2023, the UK had reported 286 cases of mpox, with 269 in England. Of these, 116 patients likely contracted the virus within the UK, while 82 cases were linked to travel abroad. Before spring 2022, UK cases were primarily associated with travel to regions where mpox is endemic, particularly in western or central Africa. However, in May 2022, the UK experienced a significant outbreak, mainly among men who are gay, bisexual, or have sex with other men. The UK launched a vaccination programme in the summer of 2022, which ended the following July.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What is the new variant of mpox detected in Sweden?
The new variant is known as clade 1b.
Where did the clade 1b strain of mpox originate?
Clade 1b emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
What are the symptoms of mpox?
Symptoms include high temperature, headache, muscle aches, backache, and a rash.
Are there any mpox cases in the UK currently?
No, there are currently no cases in the UK.
How is the UK preparing for potential mpox cases?
The UK is ensuring clinicians can recognize cases, rapid testing is available, and protocols for safe care are developed.
