First Monkeypox Cases Recorded in the UK
The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the first cases of locally transmitted monkeypox in the United Kingdom, marking a significant development in the spread of this viral disease. Two individuals were infected after coming into contact with a patient who had recently returned from Africa, where the disease is endemic. This incident represents the first local transmission of monkeypox outside of Africa since August 2024.
The WHO stated that the infected individuals live in the same household as the returning traveler, who tested positive for the virus shortly after their trip to multiple African nations. Hans Kluge, the WHO Europe Director, emphasized that while the overall risk to the UK and the wider region remains low, health authorities should enhance surveillance and contact tracing efforts to manage the situation effectively.
The British Health Security Agency confirmed that the two individuals are receiving treatment at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital in London. They also warned that there is a potential for additional cases to emerge from the same household. This outbreak comes on the heels of the first detection of this new variant in London just a week prior.
Context on Monkeypox and Other Viral Outbreaks
Monkeypox is a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans and also spreads through direct human contact. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, and skin lesions, and in severe cases, the disease can be fatal. The current outbreak is occurring alongside a significant health crisis in Africa, where over 1,000 deaths from Ebola have been reported since January, with approximately 48,000 cases documented according to the African Union Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
As health authorities in the UK respond to this new challenge, the focus will be on preventing further spread and ensuring that adequate measures are in place to protect public health.
