First Mpox Infection with New Variant Confirmed in Germany
On October 18, 2024, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) confirmed the first case of the new Mpox variant, Clade 1b, in Germany. This infection, contracted abroad, has raised concerns as the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared a global emergency due to the highly infectious nature of this variant. The RKI stated that the risk to the health of the German population remains low, and they are closely monitoring the situation to adjust recommendations as necessary.
Rising Cases of Mpox in Africa and Europe
The Mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, is currently causing a significant epidemic in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria, with over 42,000 cases reported since January 2024 and around 1,100 deaths. The outbreak is characterized by two concurrent epidemics: one affecting mainly children caused by Clade 1, and another affecting adults due to the new Clade 1b variant. In Europe, cases have also been confirmed in Sweden, prompting health authorities to prepare for potential spread. Vaccination efforts are underway in the Democratic Republic of Congo to combat the outbreak.
