New mpox variant clade Ib surfaces in the United Kingdom
In Europe, a new virus variant has been identified. The United Kingdom has reported its first case of infection with the latest strain of the mpox virus (formerly known as monkeypox). This variant, labelled clade Ib, is responsible for significantly increasing African infections.
On October 21st, a man returned to the United Kingdom after visiting countries affected by the mpox outbreak. Shortly after his return, he began to show the first symptoms of the disease. Tests conducted on October 27th confirmed that the patient is infected with the new variant of mpox, identified as clade Ib.
According to information provided by "The Guardian", the man is currently in a high-risk infectious diseases department at the Royal Free Hospital in London. Despite the presence of the new variant, experts reassure 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 minimize 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 means it 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 a range of 1 to 24 days. Once symptoms appear, symptoms 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.
