The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed two additional cases of Clade Ib mpox, bringing the total number of cases in the country to three.
These new infections have been traced to household contacts of the initial case, emphasising the virus’s potential for rapid spread in close-contact environments.
Both patients are currently receiving specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London, according to a late Monday night release obtained from the UKHSA website on Tuesday.
Despite these developments, health officials are maintaining that the overall risk to the general UK population remains low.
Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, Prof. Susan Hopkins, addressed the situation, stating, “Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact, and so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household. The overall risk to the UK population remains low.”
The agency has confirmed that comprehensive measures are in place, with all close contacts of the known cases being traced and monitored.
“We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread,” added Hopkins.
Contacts are being offered testing, and vaccinations, and advised on necessary care should symptoms develop.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting praised the healthcare response, remarking, “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 assured that the UK government is securing additional vaccines and equipping healthcare providers with the tools and guidance needed to respond effectively.
Meanwhile, NHS national director for vaccination and screening, Steve Russell, reiterated the preparedness of health services: “The NHS is fully prepared to respond to the first confirmed case of this clade of mpox. Since mpox first became present in England, local services have pulled out all the stops to vaccinate those eligible, with tens of thousands in priority groups having already come forward to get protected. If required, the NHS has plans in place to expand the roll-out of vaccines quickly in line with supply.”
This comes after the initial detection of Clade Ib mpox in the UK on 30 October 2024, marking the first instance of this strain in the country.
The first patient, who had recently travelled to African countries experiencing outbreaks, is being treated at the Royal Free Hospital High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit.
“It is thanks to our surveillance that we have been able to detect this virus,” noted Hopkins.
“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, Uganda, and beyond.
UKHSA’s technical briefings and cooperation with global health partners are part of an ongoing strategy to monitor and contain the outbreak.
As the public awaits further updates, health authorities urge vigilance. “While the risk of catching mpox in the UK remains low, it’s crucial to stay informed and seek medical guidance if symptoms, such as a rash or fever, appear,” emphasised Russell.
According to the statement, the UKHSA’s proactive response continues as they publish technical updates and assess containment strategies to ensure the nation’s safety amidst this evolving situation.