New mpox pressure detected in UK is ‘exactly what specialists feared would occur’
Scientists have discovered a new recombinant mpox virus strain in a UK traveller from Asia, which experts say is ‘precisely what they feared’ as the virus continues to evolve
A new strain of the mpox virus, described as ‘precisely what experts in the field feared would happen’, has been identified in the UK, according to scientists.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported the discovery to the World Health Organisation (WHO), after detecting the ‘hybrid’ strain of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, in an individual who had recently returned from Asia, Manchester Evening News reports.
This particular strain, which is new to the UK, was confirmed through testing to be ‘recombinant’, indicating it carries genetic material from two different mpox clades currently circulating worldwide.
Mpox is a viral disease that causes symptoms such as fever, headaches, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash with blisters, similar to smallpox. It belongs to the same viral family and spreads through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.
The infection is typically found in central and east Africa, but a significant outbreak in 2022 led to a global increase in cases, reports Cheshire Live.
Monitoring for the virus has intensified following the spread of the clade Ib variant, which was declared a global health emergency by the WHO in August 2024.
Dr Boghuma Titanji, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, warns that the newly discovered strain, which carries elements of both clade I and clade II mpox, is “precisely what experts in the field feared would happen if the virus continued to spread globally without a decisive response to stop it”.
Mpox belongs to a group of viruses notorious for their ability to ‘recombine to generate new variants’, Dr Titanji further explains.
“The key concern now is whether events like this will alter the virus’s transmissibility or virulence,” she elaborated. “There are also implications for how well existing testing platforms can identify these emerging recombinant strains.
“The more mpox circulation we allow, the more opportunities the virus has to recombine and adapt, further establishing the mpox virus as a human pathogen that is here to stay.”
The UKHSA is currently assessing the significance of this discovery and whether the new strain could behave differently.
“Our genomic testing has enabled us to detect this new mpox strain. It’s normal for viruses to evolve, and further analysis will help us understand more about how mpox is changing,” stated Dr Katy Sinka, the Head of Sexually Transmitted Infections at UKHSA.
“Although mpox infection is mild for many, it can be severe. Getting vaccinated is a proven effective way to protect yourself against severe disease, so please ensure 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.”
Typical 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.
The UK has a routine mpox vaccination programme in place for eligible groups, including those who have multiple sexual partners, engage in group sex and frequent sex-on-premises venues.
Research indicates that the vaccine is around 75-80 per cent effective in protecting against mpox, according to the UKHSA.
