Mpox Outbreak Spreads Worldwide with First Case in Europe

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a new strain of mpox virus in Sweden. This marks the first case outside Africa amid a fast-growing outbreak. The infected individual contracted the virus, known as clade Ib, while traveling in Africa. The patient is currently receiving treatment in Sweden.

Concerns Over Global Spread

Global health experts are alarmed by the case in Sweden. Lawrence Gostin, a public health expert, warned that this could lead to rapid international spread. This case may indicate dozens of undetected infections in Europe, highlighting the urgent need for vigilant monitoring and response.

Rising Cases in Africa

The outbreak, which started in January 2023, has resulted in over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The outbreak has spread to neighboring countries, prompting WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This declaration is the highest level of alert issued by WHO, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Global Response and Prevention Measures

The global vaccine alliance, Gavi, has allocated up to $500 million to support vaccination efforts in affected countries. However, U.S. and Canadian officials have yet to report any cases linked to this new strain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S. has issued a Health Alert Network update and Travel Health Notice to inform clinicians and travelers about the spread of clade Ib mpox.

Clade Ib Mpox: A New Variant

Clade Ib is a new variant of clade I, which is endemic in the Congo region. It appears to spread more easily through close contact, including sexual transmission. Clade I mpox is known for causing more severe infections and has a higher mortality rate than clade II, which led to a global outbreak in 2022. That outbreak resulted in over 95,000 cases across 115 non-endemic countries.

As the situation evolves, global health authorities are on high alert. The swift spread of this new strain outside Africa underscores the need for robust preventive measures. Public health organizations are working to contain the outbreak and prevent further international spread.