First indigenous Mpox cases in Europe

The United Kingdom has documented the first indigenous cases of Mpox clade 1b in Europe, affecting two family members. These individuals were exposed to the virus through a family member who had contracted it during a visit to Africa. The virus primarily transmits through prolonged and close physical contact, including sexual intercourse. These transmission dynamics explain the disease’s spread among individuals in close relationships, such as family members and partners. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the emergence of this novel variant, emphasising the necessity for enhanced surveillance to contain its dissemination and safeguard public health. The human smallpox vaccine, which has already demonstrated efficacy against Mpox, is recommended for individuals at high risk or planning travel to affected regions. In the event of infection, the isolation and surveillance of close contacts are of paramount importance to interrupt the chain of transmission. The WHO guidelines recommend that infected individuals should self-isolate at home, with appropriate measures to limit contagion between cohabitants, such as the use of separate spaces and the implementation of a rigorous cleaning regime.