Two additional cases of Clade Ib mpox detected

Two cases of Clade Ib mpox have been detected in household contacts of the first case, the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA) can confirm, bringing the total number of cases confirmed to three.

The two patients are currently under specialist care at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. The risk to the UK population remains low.

There has been extensive planning underway to ensure healthcare professionals are equipped and prepared to respond to any further confirmed cases. 

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said: 

 "Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact and so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household.

 “The overall risk to the UK population remains low. We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread.” 

Contacts of all three cases are being followed up by UKHSA and partner organisations. All contacts will be offered testing and vaccination as needed and advised on any necessary further care if they have symptoms or test positive.