UK Reports First Locally Transmitted Mpox Cases Outside Africa, WHO Urges Swift Action

The United Kingdom has reported two additional cases of mpox clade Ib, marking the first confirmed instances of local transmission in the WHO European Region. Both cases occurred in household contacts of a person who had recently returned from several African countries and tested positive for mpox. This development makes these the first local transmissions of mpox clade Ib outside of Africa since the Public Health Emergency of International Concern was reinstated in August 2024. Despite the low overall risk to the public, WHO/Europe has urged countries across the Region to be prepared for swift action in managing mpox transmission.

Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, highlighted that while the general population's risk remains low, the emergence of local transmission should motivate health systems across the Region to enhance surveillance and be prepared to quickly trace contacts of both confirmed and suspected cases. He also called for supportive environments for individuals who may be infected, urging them to seek testing and care without fear of stigma.

The mpox virus, which primarily spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact, can also be transmitted via contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing. Although respiratory droplet transmission may occur in close contact settings, it is not a primary route of spread. Preventative measures, particularly for travelers to countries with active outbreaks, include avoiding close skin-to-skin contact with symptomatic individuals, frequent handwashing, and vaccination where available. WHO's vaccination guidance remains unchanged, with a focus on at-risk groups, including health workers and individuals with multiple sexual partners.

In cases of mpox,...