WHO announces
New Mpox variant transmitted for the first time in Europe
Updated on November 6, 2024 - 7:52 a.mReading time: 2 min.
The Mpox virus is not easily transmittable. Nevertheless, people in Europe became infected for the first time – in Great Britain.
For the first time, people in Europe have become infected with the new variant of the Mpox virus. This was announced by the World Health Organization (WHO). In Great Britain, two people were infected with the so-called clade Ib. They lived in the same household as a person who tested positive shortly after traveling to several African countries.
These are the first locally transmitted Mpox clade Ib cases in the WHO European region and also the first outside Africa since the WHO declared an international health emergency in August. This is the highest alert level that is intended to bring authorities around the world to greater attention.
The risk to people in Great Britain and the region remains low, Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, was quoted as saying in the statement. However, health systems should increase their surveillance and prepare for rapid contact tracing of suspected and confirmed cases.
Mpox – previously called “monkeypox” – is primarily transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact, such as during sex or close hugging, massaging and kissing.
In recent months there have been cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya; In addition, people from Sweden, India, Thailand and Germany became infected abroad. This includes a patient in whom the new pathogen was detected in Cologne in mid-October – the first clade Ib infected person in Germany. Infections with clade IIb have been occurring in many countries, including Germany, since May 2022.
The Mpox symptoms include a typical skin rash and often general symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle pain. Fatal outcomes are rare, especially in countries with good treatment standards. Clade Ib is thought to experience more severe disease than clade IIb and is said to be more contagious. However, there is no reliable information on this yet.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Emily Nguyen, Infectious Disease Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Dr. Nguyen. Thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Emily Nguyen: Good morning! Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: The World Health Organization recently reported the first Mpox infections in Europe, specifically in Great Britain. This marks a significant moment in the evolution of the virus. Can you share your initial thoughts on this development?
Dr. Nguyen: Absolutely. This is indeed concerning news. The fact that the new variant, clade Ib, has been locally transmitted in Europe underscores the changing dynamics of this virus. What’s particularly alarming is that this is the first instance outside of Africa, highlighting the potential for broader outbreaks.
Editor: The WHO declared a “public health emergency of international concern” due to the spread of Mpox in Africa earlier this year. How does this new finding in Europe relate to that declaration?
Dr. Nguyen: The declaration by the WHO was a critical step in mobilizing resources and attention to Mpox, especially given that it was spreading rapidly in Africa. The emergence of cases in Europe, especially ones that are locally transmitted, further emphasizes the urgent need for surveillance and response efforts globally, not just in the regions where the virus has been predominantly active.
Editor: Can you explain how this new variant was transmitted? The report indicates it involved individuals who traveled to Africa. Does this suggest that travel is a major risk factor?
Dr. Nguyen: Yes, travel is a significant factor in the spread of infectious diseases. In this case, the individuals who tested positive had contact with someone who traveled to Africa and subsequently tested positive. This highlights the importance of monitoring travelers from affected regions and the critical role of public health measures such as testing and quarantine when necessary.
Editor: The report states that the Mpox virus is not easily transmittable, yet we’re seeing these localized outbreaks. What does this mean for the general public?
Dr. Nguyen: While it’s true that Mpox isn’t as easily spread as some other viruses, the fact that it can still transmit locally, particularly in close-contact situations, should encourage us to remain vigilant. It’s essential for people to be aware of symptoms and to seek medical advice if they believe they’ve been exposed, especially if they’ve traveled to or been in contact with someone from affected areas.
Editor: In terms of public health responses, what steps do you think need to follow this announcement?
Dr. Nguyen: First, we need comprehensive contact tracing to identify anyone who may have been exposed. Public health campaigns aimed at educating the public about Mpox, its symptoms, and prevention methods are crucial. It’s also important for healthcare providers to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to take precautionary measures when assessing patients. Vaccine development and distribution should also continue to be a priority if we hope to control the spread of the virus.
Editor: With this development in Europe, what can individuals do to protect themselves and their communities?
Dr. Nguyen: Individuals can protect themselves by staying informed and practicing good hygiene. If you’ve traveled to areas where Mpox is present, monitor any symptoms and seek medical advice. Maintaining safe practices, like avoiding close contact with sick individuals and washing hands frequently, is particularly important. Lastly, advocating for swift public health responses in your community can help elevate preparedness.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Nguyen. It’s clear that there is a lot more to learn about Mpox, particularly now that it has made its presence felt in Europe. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Nguyen: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to discuss these developments and share information to keep everyone safe.