The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed two additional cases of Clade Ib mpox, bringing the total number of infections in the country to three. These new cases have been linked to household contacts of the original patient, highlighting the virus’s ability to spread quickly in close-contact environments. Both patients are receiving specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London, as confirmed by a UKHSA release issued late Monday night.

Despite the recent developments, health officials maintain that the overall risk to the general UK population remains low. Prof. Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, stated, Mpox is highly infectious in households with close contact, so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household. However, the overall risk to the UK population remains low.”

The UKHSA is taking comprehensive measures to prevent further spread, with all close contacts of the confirmed cases being traced and monitored. These contacts are being offered testing, vaccination, and medical guidance on what to do should symptoms appear.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting praised the swift response of healthcare professionals, saying, “I’m extremely grateful to those supporting and caring for the patients affected. The risk to the UK population remains low, and the government is working closely with UKHSA and the NHS to prevent transmission.”

The government is also securing additional vaccines to ensure healthcare providers are equipped to manage the situation. Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccination and screening, reaffirmed that the NHS is fully prepared, stating, “Local services have already vaccinated tens of thousands in priority groups, and if necessary, we have plans in place to expand the vaccine roll-out quickly as more doses become available.”

This follows the first detection of Clade Ib mpox in the UK on 30 October 2024, marking the first appearance of this particular strain in the country. The first patient, who had recently traveled to countries in Africa experiencing mpox outbreaks, is being treated at the Royal Free Hospital’s High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit.

The detection of this virus is a testament to our robust surveillance systems,” said Prof. Hopkins. “This is the first time we’ve seen Clade Ib mpox in the UK, though it has been reported in other countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. We are working swiftly to trace contacts and mitigate any potential spread.”

While the risk of contracting mpox in the UK remains low, health authorities urge vigilance. “If symptoms like a rash or fever appear, it’s important to seek medical advice,” said Russell. UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely, publishing updates and collaborating with global health partners to contain the outbreak.