The new mpox variant clade ib has emerged in the UK. Risk remains low
In Europe, a new virus variant has been identified. The United Kingdom has reported its first case of infection with the new strain of the mpox virus (formerly known as monkeypox). This variant, clade Ib, is responsible for significantly increasing African infections.
On 21st October, a man returned to the United Kingdom after visiting countries affected by the mpox outbreak. Shortly after his return, he began to show the initial symptoms of the disease. Tests conducted on 27th October confirmed that the patient is infected with the new variant of mpox, identified as clade Ib.
According to "The Guardian" information, the man is currently in a high-risk infectious diseases department at the Royal Free Hospital in London. Despite the new variant, experts reassure the public that the risk of the virus spreading in the United Kingdom is low.
Authorities are trying to determine whom the infected individual has been in contact with to respond appropriately. These individuals will be offered tests for the presence of mpox and the opportunity to be vaccinated to minimise the risk of further infection.
It's worth noting that as early as August, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a "global health emergency" due to the mpox epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the virus quickly spread to neighbouring African countries. This variant recently reached Europe, and in mid-October, the first case of clade Ib infection was reported in Germany.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
The monkeypox virus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, which can be contracted through contact with broken skin, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets. Infection can occur not only from a sick person but also through contact with an animal or contaminated objects.
Symptoms of the disease typically appear within a week of infection, although the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates they can manifest within 1 to 24 days. Once symptoms appear, they can last from 2 to 4 weeks, and in the case of individuals with weakened immune systems, they can be prolonged.
Complications related to this disease include pneumonia, encephalitis, myocarditis, and urethritis. In the most severe cases, monkeypox can lead to death, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for caution.
