First UK case of mpox variant clade Ib detected in London

Person diagnosed after developing flu-like symptoms and rash, as UKHSA says risk to UK population remains low

Health officials have reported the UK's first case of mpox caused by a new strain that is driving an ongoing surge in infections in Africa.

The UK Health Security Agency said the individual tested positive for clade Ib mpox after travelling to countries affected by the outbreak and had been transferred to the high-consequence infectious diseases unit at London's Royal Free hospital.