UK Discovers New Clade Ib Mpox Case, Fourth This Year
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Synopsis
A new case of Clade Ib mpox has emerged in northeast England, as confirmed by the UK Health Security Agency. This marks the fourth case in the UK this year, with ongoing investigations into the infection's origin.
Key Takeaways
- Fourth confirmed case of Clade Ib mpox this year.
- Patient had no travel history or known contacts.
- UKHSA monitoring all contacts; no further cases found.
- Clade Ia and Ib mpox reclassified as less severe.
- Symptoms include rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
London, April 8 (NationPress) A confirmed human case of Clade Ib mpox has been identified in northeast England, marking the fourth instance this year, according to British health authorities.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that the patient, diagnosed in March, had no known travel history or connections to previously confirmed cases in Britain, as per Xinhua news agency.
All contacts have been monitored, and no additional cases have been reported. The UKHSA is currently investigating how the patient contracted the infection.
Previously, all mpox cases in Britain were linked to travel to affected areas or contacts with infected individuals, the UKHSA noted.
The last reported case of Clade Ib mpox occurred in February. The recent case represents the ninth confirmed instance of Clade Ib mpox in England since October 2024.
The UKHSA announced that Clade Ia and Ib mpox will no longer be categorized as high-consequence infectious diseases following a review by the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens last month.
“Nevertheless, this change should not imply that Clade I mpox is no longer a public health concern,” the agency clarified.
The disease continues to be a public health emergency of international concern as recognized by the World Health Organization. Nonetheless, Dr. Gillian Armstrong, UKHSA Mpox Incident Director, stated that the “risk to the UK population from mpox remains low.”
“Most individuals presenting symptoms have reported close physical contact, including massages or sexual activity, before the onset of symptoms,” added Armstrong.
Typical symptoms of mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions that may persist for two to four weeks. It can also lead to fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
Armstrong emphasized that individuals exhibiting symptoms, regardless of travel history, should seek medical attention promptly.
Mpox is a viral condition characterized by fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy, which is the swelling or abnormality of lymph nodes.
Although it is often self-limiting and mild for many, the infection can be severe for some, Armstrong pointed out.
