The UKHSA warned the discovery of the new strain is ‘not unexpected’
Health bosses have issed an mpox update(Image: AP)
Health officials have revealed a new hybrid strain of mpox has been detected in England, sparking fresh warnings for people to stay alert and get vaccinated if eligible.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said on Monday (December 8) it has identified a new mpox virus in an individual who had recently travelled to Asia. Tests showed the virus is a ‘recombinant’ strain, meaning it contains genetic material from two different mpox clades that are currently circulating globally.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by a virus that belongs to the same family as smallpox. The infection is most commonly found in parts of central and east Africa, but a global outbreak in 2022 caused cases to spike across the globe.
The spread of the ‘clade Ib’ variant outside of endemic areas, such as in Europe and North America, led to heightened surveillance of mpox. In August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a global health emergency.
The UKHSA said the new strain contained elements of clade Ib and IIb mpox, which it said is ‘not expected’ as both clades are circulating, highlighting the potential for the virus to evolve. The UKHSA are now assessing the significance of this finding and whether the new strain could behave differently.
The UKHSA has urged those eligible to get their mpox jab(Image: PA)
Dr Katy Sinka, Head of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UKHSA, said: “Our genomic testing has enabled us to detect this new mpox strain. It’s normal for viruses to evolve, and further analysis will help us understand more about how mpox is changing.
“Although mpox infection is mild for many, it can be severe. Getting vaccinated is a proven effective way to protect yourself against severe disease, so please make sure to get the jab if you are eligible.
“It is important to remain alert to the risks from this unpleasant illness. Anyone who thinks they may have mpox should contact NHS 111 for advice on what to do.”
The UK has a routine mpox vaccination programme in place for eligible groups, including those who:
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Have group sex
- Visit sex-on-premises venues
Mpox can cause a ‘painful’ rash(Image: AP)
Studies have shown the vaccine is around 75-80 per cent effective in protecting against mpox, the UKHSA said.
Common symptoms of mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions which can last 2 to 4 weeks. It can also cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.
