The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is aware of small numbers of locally acquired cases of clade Ib mpox in the USA, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal, which have no connection to countries with known clade Ib mpox transmission.
This suggests there is now community transmission of clade Ib mpox globally. Most of the new cases identified in Europe and the USA have been in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, a population in which clade Ib mpox transmission has not previously been observed.
Mpox is usually a mild infection, and clade Ia and Ib mpox are no longer classified as a high consequence infectious disease (HCID). However, it can be severe in some cases.
The UK has a routine mpox vaccination programme in place for eligible groups, including those that:
- have multiple sexual partners
- have group sex
- visit sex-on-premises venues.
Studies show that the vaccine is around 75-80% effective in protecting people against clade II mpox. Although there are no studies on vaccine effectiveness against clade Ib mpox, vaccine protection is expected. A high proportion of people in eligible groups in the UK have already had the vaccine.
Find out how to check your eligibility or book an appointment in England, Wales and Scotland.
Common symptoms of mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions which can last 2 to 4 weeks. It can also cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.
Dr Katy Sinka, Head of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UKHSA said:
'The ways in which we are seeing mpox continue to spread globally is a reminder to come forward for the vaccine, if you are eligible.
'Although mpox infection is mild for many, it can be severe.
'Getting vaccinated if you are eligible is a proven effective way to protect yourself against severe disease, so please make sure to get the jab if you are eligible.
'It is important to remain alert to the risks from this unpleasant illness. Anyone who thinks they may have mpox should contact NHS 111 for advice on what to do.'
UKHSA has robust mechanisms in place to investigate suspected cases of mpox of all clade types, irrespective of travel history, publishing regular updates on confirmed UK cases of mpox.
UKHSA has today published an updated technical assessment on mpox to reflect the latest epidemiology.
Further information about symptoms is available on the NHS website.
Richard Angell OBE, Chief Executive, Terrence Higgins Trust said:
'The last outbreak of mpox hit the gay, bi and other men who have sex with men community disproportionately hard. While it is described as ‘mild’, those who have the mpox rash around their face and body, including in intimate and sensitive areas, will tell you how unpleasant and painful it is.
'In 2022, we were not prepared for the mpox outbreak and the tools available were hard to mobilise – this time we have a government funded vaccine programme available to gay and bi men and it is strongly encouraged for those who have multiple partners, take part in sex parties and visit sex on premises venues.
'With Winter Pride season soon upon us across Europe, those travelling to these events would be wise to get vaccinated, at least once, if not twice. Those who have had two mpox jabs should have protection. Anyone experiencing a rash after sex should seek out a sexual health clinic or call THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.'
Dr Will Nutland, Director at The Love Tank said:
'Mpox hasn’t been making headlines for more than a year but these cases show that mpox has not gone away. Routine availability of mpox vaccination, through NHS sexual health clinics, provides an effective way of protecting against mpox. The Love Tank continues to work alongside NHS colleagues to ensure that vaccination programmes continue to reach those who most need them, including in community settings.'
Prof. Matt Phillips, President of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV said:
'We encourage anyone who is eligible for the vaccine against mpox to talk to their local sexual health clinic and arrange to be vaccinated.
'These cases are a reminder both that mpox has not gone away, and of the importance of vaccine programmes in reducing the impact of mpox infection.'
