**UK Reports Two New Mpox Cases, More Infectious Strain**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 06, 2024

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UK Reports Two New Mpox Cases, More Infectious Strain

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported two new cases of mpox in England, raising concerns about a potential increase in transmission. These new cases are particularly concerning as they involve a more infectious strain of the virus, known as clade IIb.

What is Clade IIb?

Clade IIb is a genetic variant of the mpox virus that is known to be more transmissible than the previous dominant strain, clade I. This means that individuals infected with clade IIb are more likely to spread the virus to others, even if they are asymptomatic.

Symptoms of Mpox

Mpox is a viral disease that can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Rash that may start on the face and then spread to other parts of the body

Who is at Risk?

While anyone can get mpox, the recent cases in the UK have been primarily reported among men who have sex with men. The UKHSA is urging anyone who experiences mpox symptoms to seek medical attention and isolate to prevent further spread.

What is the UKHSA Doing?

The UKHSA is actively monitoring the situation and working to identify and contact individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. They are also urging the public to be aware of the symptoms of mpox and to take precautions to reduce their risk of infection.

How to Reduce Your Risk

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting mpox:

• Practice safe sex. Use condoms and avoid close contact with individuals who have mpox symptoms.
• Wash your hands frequently. Especially after contact with someone who has a rash.
• Avoid touching open sores or scabs.
• Get vaccinated. The UKHSA is currently offering the Imvanex vaccine to high-risk individuals.

Staying Informed

The situation regarding mpox is constantly evolving. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments by following official sources of information, such as the UKHSA website and public health announcements.

By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, we can all help to prevent the further spread of mpox in the UK.