The World Heath Organisation (WHO) has declared the latest mpox outbreal a "public health emergency of international concern" after a new virulent strain of the virus has spread across Africa. Data shows that there have been more that 15,000 cases of the disease, which was previously known as monkeypox, and 461 deaths reported on the continent in 2024. Mpox is a viral infection that causes a blister-like rash and flu-like symptoms such as a fever, headache and swollen lymph nodes.
According to the NHS , it usually takes between 5 and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear. WHO say that about 100 cases mpox are being seen in Europe every month. The new strain originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but on August 15 Sweden became the first country outside the African continent to confirm a case of mpox clade IB.
Read more: ITV Lorraine's Dr Hilary Jones discusses potential UK Mpox threat and necessary precautions Read more: Girl, 12, dies in hospital after being found by grandfather While there are currently no reported cases of the new, more virulent strain of mpox in the UK, it has been reported that the NHS are building up a stockpile of vaccines in preparation. On Monday, August 19 Dr Chris Whitty met with ministers to discuss the UK's preparedness for an mpox outbreak. Downing Street said they met to "ensure sufficient plans are in place to deal with any potential cases".
Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious diseases expert, told Sky News it was "very likely" someone in the UK already had the new strain. For the latest health and Covid news, sign up to our newsletter here . Mpox can be spread from person to person through any close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs, touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with mpox and the coughs or sneezes of a person with mpox if they are close to you.
While anyone can get mpox, the NHS say that most cases have been in men who or gay, bisexual or have sex with other men so it is particularly important for these groups to be aware of the symptoms. Wendi Shepherd, Deputy Director of Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales can confirm that there are no cases of mpox currently reported in Wales. We are working with the Welsh Government , UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland, and we are ready to respond to cases of mpox in Wales if they should occur.
The overall risk to the UK population from mpox remains low.” Join the WalesOnline WhatsApp community WalesOnline has launched a new breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community. From the biggest court stories to the latest traffic updates, weather warnings and breaking news, it's a simple way to stay up to date with what's happening in Wales.
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