Mpox In UK: First Case Of Clade 1b Variant Detected; Will This Lead To A Winter Epidemic? (Image: Canva)
The first confirmed case of Clade Ib Mpox has been detected in the United Kingdom, public health officials announced. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the case had been identified in London in an individual who had recently travelled to several countries in Africa. For the unversed, Clade Ib Mpox is new variant of the virus which has been a cause of concern.
In August, the UKHSA updated its advice to raise awareness of the variant among doctors. This happened after the World Health Organisation declared it to be a public health emergency. The variant has been widely circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in recent months and there have been cases reported in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sweden, India and Germany.
With the first case being declared in the UK, there have been speculations about a potential epidemic outbreak during the winter season.
Mpox spreads through close and direct contact with an infected person. This includes skin-to-skin contact, lesions, or bodily fluids of someone with mpox. It can also spread through respiratory droplets. Animal to human transmission can also occur if a person is bitten by or handles an infected animal. But the actual question is if winter can trigger mpox epidemic?
While winter itself cannot directly trigger mpox epidemic, the season can increase the risk of spread. Cold weather makes people stay indoors - often in poorly ventilated spaces. Lower humidity and weakened immunity in winter months can also contribute to respiratory virus spread.
How can you stay protected from Mpox?
Vaccination is one of the best ways to prevent yourself from Mpox. Some other ways include.
- Avoid contact with infected animals.
- Thoroughly cook all foods that contain animal meat or parts.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus.
- Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms and dental dams.
- Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when around others.
- Properly clean all the frequently touched surfaces.
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