Health bosses have said two more cases of the mpox virus variant Clade 1b have been detected in the UK — and are household contacts of the first case announced in London.
The UK confirmed the first case of the fast-spreading mpox variant that sparked a global warning in the last week of October. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the latest cases a week later, bringing the total cases in the UK to three.
The first case had recently travelled to African countries with community transmission of the potentially deadly Clade 1b strain.
The two latest patients are under specialist care at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London.
"There has been extensive planning under way to ensure healthcare professionals are equipped and prepared to respond to any further confirmed cases,” the UKHSA said.
“Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact and so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household,” Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA, added.
"The overall risk to the UK population remains low. We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread."
In September 2024, the Government announced it had ordered more than 150,000 doses of mpox vaccine in preparation for the “likely” discovery of Clade 1b cases.
Experts have said that Clade 1b is associated with more severe disease and higher mortality rates than the variant that caused the global mpox outbreak in 2022.
So what is mpox, what are its symptoms and how is it treated?
Here is everything you need to know.
What is mpox?
Mpox is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus, part of the orthopoxvirus family, including the variola virus responsible for smallpox.
Origin and history:
Mpox is generally less severe than smallpox, but its spread to new regions has raised public health concerns worldwide.
Why has the name changed from monkeypox?
The WHO changed the name of the disease from "monkeypox" to "mpox" in November 2022. This change addressed concerns about the potential for stigma and racism associated with the original name. Some believed this could reinforce harmful stereotypes, particularly as the disease began spreading more widely outside of Africa.
The name "monkeypox" originated because the virus was first identified in monkeys, but the disease is more commonly associated with rodents in its natural reservoirs. The WHO sought a neutral, non-stigmatising name in line with the naming conventions used for other diseases.
The decision to rename the disease was part of broader efforts to ensure that the names of diseases are culturally sensitive and do not contribute to discrimination or stigmatisation of individuals or communities.
What are the symptoms of mpox?
The symptoms of mpox include:
In addition, a rash typically develops. This often begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body, including the genitals.
The rash evolves through several stages, starting as flat lesions, then becoming raised, filled with fluid (vesicles), and finally turning into scabs that eventually fall off. The appearance of the rash can resemble other conditions like chickenpox or syphilis.
Additional information:
These symptoms and the progression of the disease are crucial for diagnosis and management, especially in non-endemic regions where awareness might be lower.
How is mpox treated?
Mpox treatment focuses on symptom relief and supportive care, as most cases resolve in two to four weeks without complications. Patients may use over-the-counter medications, stay hydrated, and apply soothing lotions for pain, fever, and skin discomfort. Antivirals including Tecovirimat (TPOXX) may be prescribed in severe cases or high-risk patients because it’s specifically effective against mpox. Cidofovir and Brincidofovir are alternatives but are used less often.
Preventive vaccination with vaccines including Jynneos (Imvamune or Imvanex) is available for high-risk groups and may be used after exposure to limit spread. Isolation and hygiene measures are essential to prevent transmission within households and communities. Most people recover fully with appropriate care, although those at higher risk should seek prompt medical advice for optimal treatment.
What does the UK Health Security Agency say about mpox?
The UKHSA has been actively monitoring and responding to the mpox outbreak since May 2022. It has focused on understanding the transmission dynamics, particularly noting that most cases have been among men who have sex with men.
The UKHSA advises anyone concerned about mpox to contact a sexual health clinic or call NHS 111.
While the virus does not usually spread easily and the overall risk to the UK population remains low, the UKHSA recommends vaccination for those eligible.
The agency has also conducted contact tracing for people in close contact with confirmed cases.
