The UK government has taken proactive measures to boost the country’s defenses against a new variant of the mpox virus, which has been causing outbreaks in Africa and isolated cases in Europe and Asia. In anticipation of potential cases of the Clade 1b strain of mpox, the UK has secured an additional 150,000 doses of the vaccine. While there have been no reported cases of this strain in the UK, health officials are preparing for the possibility of its arrival.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared the resurgence of mpox as a “public health emergency of international concern” due to its spread beyond Africa. Despite efforts at UK borders to prevent the virus from entering the country, the long incubation period of mpox and its potential for global spread necessitate preparedness among health officials.
In addition to procuring more doses of the mpox vaccine, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published a risk assessment for the Clade 1b strain. This assessment includes scenarios for a potential outbreak in the UK and outlines plans for rapid identification of cases, testing, and protocols for clinical care and prevention of further transmission. Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA, emphasized the importance of swift action in response to the evolving situation.
The risk assessment is primarily based on the ongoing outbreak of the Clade 2 strain of mpox, which has resulted in over 100,000 cases worldwide, including nearly 4,000 in the UK. The Clade 2 strain has predominantly affected gay and bisexual men, with a successful vaccination campaign targeting this population since 2022. However, the Clade 1b outbreak in Africa presents different characteristics, with transmission occurring among heterosexual partners, sex workers, families, and children.
While the fatality rate of the Clade 1b strain is less than 1%, health officials are cautious about its potential for increased infectivity or severity. The UK’s preparedness includes three potential outbreak scenarios: a self-contained incursion, a controllable epidemic, and a widespread outbreak requiring a national vaccination program. Targeted vaccination of high-risk groups, such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, and at-risk clinical staff, is expected to be instrumental in containing the virus.
In the event of a more widespread outbreak, the UK may face challenges in managing multiple clusters of cases in various settings. While contact tracing and isolation have been effective in previous scenarios, a nationwide vaccination program would be necessary if the virus becomes highly transmissible. However, current global stocks of the mpox vaccine may not be sufficient to support such a large-scale initiative.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the UK’s commitment to monitoring the global spread of the virus and supporting international efforts to combat the outbreak. By ensuring adequate vaccine supply and preparedness measures, the UK aims to protect its population and contribute to the global response to the mpox virus.
Impact on Public Health
The procurement of additional doses of the mpox vaccine and the publication of a risk assessment by the UKHSA highlight the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health. By preparing for potential outbreaks and implementing targeted vaccination strategies, health officials aim to prevent the spread of the Clade 1b strain within the UK.
Global Collaboration and Support
The WHO’s declaration of a public health emergency underscores the need for international collaboration and support in combating the resurgence of the mpox virus. The UK’s early support to the Democratic Republic of Congo and its efforts to ensure global vaccine supply demonstrate a commitment to collective action in addressing global health threats.
Future Preparedness and Response
As the situation continues to evolve, ongoing monitoring and preparedness will be essential in responding effectively to the mpox virus. By staying proactive and adaptable in their approach, health officials can mitigate the risks associated with the Clade 1b strain and protect the population from potential outbreaks.