In a worrying development, two additional cases of a highly transmissible strain of mpox have been confirmed in the UK, linked to the first case reported last week. According to the Health Security Agency (UKHSA), these new infections come from household contacts, raising the total number of confirmed cases of the Clade Ib mpox strain in the UK to three.

The initial case was identified in London, involving an individual who had recently returned from a holiday in Africa, arriving back in the UK on October 21. Within 24 hours, this person began experiencing flu-like symptoms, followed by the emergence of a rash on October 24, which subsequently worsened.

The UKHSA has assured the public that the risk level remains low at this time. The two newly infected individuals are currently receiving specialized care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. In response to these developments, health authorities are actively tracking all contacts related to the three confirmed cases, offering testing and vaccination as a precautionary measure.

Prof. Susan Hopkins, chief medical advisor at UKHSA, emphasized the natural occurrence of additional cases within households due to the infectious nature of mpox in close-contact settings. She reiterated, "The overall risk to the UK population remains low. We are working diligently to identify all potential contacts to mitigate the risk of further transmission."

Mpox primarily spreads through direct physical contact with infected individuals, particularly through rashes, skin lesions, or scabs. High-risk interactions include sexual contact, kissing, and even casual skin-to-skin contact. Personal items such as bedding and towels, as well as prolonged face-to-face engagements, can also facilitate the virus's spread.

Symptoms of mpox include skin rashes characterized by blisters or ulcers, fever, headaches, backaches, and muscle pains. Notably, the rash can appear between one and five days after the onset of other initial symptoms.

The Clade Ib strain of mpox has been prominently circulating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with additional cases noted in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sweden, India, and Germany. A staggering report from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted that over 40,000 mpox cases have resulted in nearly 1,000 fatalities in Africa by the end of September 2024, indicating a severe public health threat.

In response to the escalating situation, the WHO has declared a public health emergency of international concern. UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has stated that the government is taking proactive measures in collaboration with UKHSA and NHS to safeguard public health and prevent further transmission. This includes securing vaccines, providing comprehensive guidance for healthcare providers, and strengthening international partnerships to assist affected nations in managing and controlling outbreaks.

As the situation develops, the UKHSA and health officials are committed to maintaining transparency and updating the public on ongoing efforts to combat this concerning health threat.