The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed two additional cases of Clade Ib mpox, bringing the national total to three. The latest infections were traced to household contacts of the initial patient, highlighting the virus’s potential for spread within close-contact environments.
According to the UKHSA, both patients are currently under specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. Despite these new cases, officials maintain that the overall risk to the UK public remains low.
“Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact, so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household,” said Prof. Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA. “The overall risk to the UK population remains low.”
To contain the outbreak, UKHSA has implemented comprehensive measures, including tracing and monitoring all close contacts. “We are working with partners to ensure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread,” added Hopkins. Contacts are receiving testing, vaccinations, and guidance on necessary care should symptoms appear.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting praised the healthcare response: “I am extremely grateful to the healthcare professionals who are carrying out incredible work to support and care for the patients affected. The overall risk to the UK population currently remains low, and the government is working alongside UKHSA and the NHS to protect the public and prevent transmission.” Streeting also assured that the government is securing additional vaccines and equipping healthcare providers with essential tools and guidance.
NHS national director for vaccination and screening, Steve Russell, emphasized NHS preparedness: “The NHS is fully prepared to respond to the first confirmed case of this clade of mpox. Local services have pulled out all the stops to vaccinate those eligible, with tens of thousands in priority groups already protected. If necessary, the NHS has plans to quickly expand vaccine roll-out in line with supply.”
The UK detected its first Clade Ib mpox case on 30 October 2024. The initial patient, who recently traveled to African regions experiencing outbreaks, is receiving treatment at the Royal Free Hospital’s High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit. Prof. Hopkins credited UK surveillance for identifying the virus: “This is the first time we have detected this clade of mpox in the UK, though other cases have been confirmed abroad. We are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce the risk of any potential spread.”
Clade Ib mpox has been reported in multiple countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda. UKHSA is collaborating with global health partners to monitor and contain the outbreak.
As health authorities urge vigilance, Russell advised the public to stay informed: “While the risk of catching mpox in the UK remains low, it’s crucial to seek medical guidance if symptoms, such as a rash or fever, appear.” UKHSA continues to publish technical updates and assess containment strategies to safeguard the nation amidst this evolving situation.
