UK Confirms First Case of Severe Mpox Strain

The UK has confirmed its first case of the more severe Clade 1b strain of mpox, a variant previously unseen in the country and known for its higher mortality rate. The patient, who developed symptoms after returning from Africa, is being treated in isolation at the Royal Free Hospital in London. Health experts warn that the virus could be spreading silently, as initial symptoms might be mild or asymptomatic, complicating detection. Despite this, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) assesses the public health risk as low and is actively tracing fewer than 10 close contacts of the patient. Clade 1b has been a significant concern in central Africa, prompting the WHO to label it a public health emergency. Authorities emphasize the importance of rigorous surveillance to prevent further undetected spread.