Mpox symptoms as first case of potentially fatal strain found in UK

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A case of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) has been confirmed in the UK. Health officials are advising the public to be vigilant about the symptoms to look out for. The Clade Ib strain of mpox has raised concerns worldwide this year following an outbreak in Africa

This variant of the disease differs from Clade II, a strain that has been circulating at low levels in the UK since 2022.

In an update from the UKHSA, it was reported that this case was identified in London, and the patient was moved to the Royal Free Hospital's High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit.

It is understood that the individual had recently travelled to African countries impacted by the latest outbreak. The UKHSA reported that it is "working closely" with the NHS and academic partners to identify the characteristics of the pathogen and further evaluate the risk to human health.

Symptoms of mpox

The symptoms of mpox can vary from mild to severe and typically takes 5 and 21 days to appear after exposure. The most common symptoms include:

• Fever
• headaches
• muscle aches
• backache
• swollen glands
• shivering
• exhaustion
• joint pain

The NHS also states that a rash can appear quickly after the first symptoms show, advising it "can be on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals and anus." If a rash occurs you should keep it covered, so it does not spread to the rest of your body.

How you get mpox

Mpox can be transmitted from person to person through close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs, which includes activities such as sexual contact, kissing, cuddling, or holding hands.

It can also spread by touching clothing, bedding, or towels used by someone infected with mpox, as well as through the coughs or sneezes of a person with the virus when they are in close proximity to you.

The NHS states that in parts of central and east Africa mpox can be caught from infected rodents, such as rats, mice and squirrels, if you are bitten or if you touch their fur, skin, blood, body fluids, spots, blisters, or scabs. Additionally, consuming their meat that has not been thoroughly cooked can also lead to transmission.

Treatment for mpox

Mpox can usually get better within a few weeks without treatment, but if symptoms worsen then you should go to the hospital to receive care. The NHS states that the risk of needing treatment in hospital is higher for elderly people, young children, and people who a compromised immune system.

As the infection can be passed on through close contact, it is important to isolate if you are told to do so by a health professional.

The NHS mention that mpox is caused by a similar virus to smallpox, and the smallpox (MVA) vaccine should "give a good level of protection against mpox."

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If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of mpox, you can contact 111 online for guidance regarding your symptoms.

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