First UK case of potentially deadly Mpox strain detected in London

The first case of a new infectious and potentially deadly strain of Mpox has been reported in the UK.

The Clade lb strain emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in August this year. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the case has now been detected in London.

The UKHSA has said that the risk to the UK population currently remains low.

Read more: Dad of two shocked to find he had condition he didn't know affected men while showering

The person involved had been on holiday in Africa and travelled back to the UK on an overnight flight on October 21. Fewer than 10 people who are thought to have come into contact with the patient are initially being traced, the UKHSA said.

Clade Ib has been widely circulating in the DRC in recent months and there have been cases reported in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sweden, India and Germany. As of early September, over 600 deaths from the virus had been reported.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern because of the rapid spread of this Mpox strain.

Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA, said: “It is thanks to our surveillance that we have been able to detect this virus.

“This is the first time we have detected this Clade of Mpox in the UK, though other cases have been confirmed abroad.

“The risk to the UK population remains low, and we are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce the risk of any potential spread.

“In accordance with established protocols, investigations are underway to learn how the individual acquired the infection and to assess whether there are any further associated cases.”

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “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.

“This includes securing vaccines and equipping healthcare professionals with the guidance and tools they need to respond to cases safely.

“We are also working with our international partners to support affected countries to prevent further outbreaks.”

How does Mpox spread?

Mpox can only spread when there is close contact such as direct contact with rash, skin lesions or scabs caused by the virus, including during sexual contact, kissing, or cuddling.

There is also a risk from contact with bodily fluids such as saliva or snot, sharing bedding or towels; and a possibility of spread through close and prolonged face-to-face contact such as talking, breathing, coughing, or sneezing.

What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?

Symptoms of monkeypox include skin rash with blisters, spots or ulcers that can appear anywhere on the body, fever, headache, backache and muscle aches. A rash usually appears one to five days after a fever, headache and other symptoms.

See the NHS guidance on Mpox for more information.