22.01.2025.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a new case of Clade Ib mpox in England, bringing the total number of cases to six since October 2024.
This latest case was identified in East Sussex, and the affected individual is now receiving specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
The individual had recently returned from Uganda, where community transmission of Clade Ib mpox is ongoing. For privacy reasons, no further details about the patient will be disclosed.
Risk to the public remains low
According to UKHSA, the overall risk to the UK population remains low. The agency’s Deputy Director, Dr. Meera Chand, stated, “It is thanks to clinicians rapidly recognising the symptoms and the work of our specialist laboratory that we have been able to detect this new case.
The risk to the UK population remains low following this sixth case, and we are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce the risk of any potential spread.”
Case details and response
- The sixth case has no known links to the previous cases identified in England.
- Close contacts of the individual are being traced by UKHSA and partner organisations.
- These contacts will undergo testing and be offered vaccination if necessary to prevent further infections.
- They will also receive advice on additional care if they exhibit symptoms or test positive.
Background on Clade Ib Mpox
Clade Ib mpox has been circulating in several African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. Recently, cases have also been imported to countries outside Africa, such as Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Sweden, and the United States.
Recent case history
The previous case of Clade Ib mpox in England was confirmed on November 29, 2024, in Leeds.
The individual, who had also recently returned from Uganda, was treated at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
This fifth case was unrelated to earlier cases, which were confined to a single household and have since fully recovered.
Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, emphasized that proactive diagnostic efforts and established response protocols have been key to managing these cases effectively.
Preparedness and Public Health Measures
UKHSA has emphasized the extensive planning and preparedness measures in place to address Clade Ib mpox cases.
Healthcare professionals across the UK are equipped to respond promptly to confirmed cases, ensuring swift containment and mitigation of potential spread.
The detection of imported cases underscores the need for vigilance, particularly among travellers returning from regions with ongoing transmission.
The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely and advises anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical advice promptly.
