Europe is witnessing early signs of local transmission of a new Mpox strain, and the UK health authorities are calling on the gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men to ensure that they are fully vaccinated. As per the UK Health Security Agency (IKHSA), a renewed warning has been issued following the reports of 'clade Ib' Mpox in several European Union (EU) countries. Spread of Clade IbAs per the UKHSA, small numbers of Mpox clase Ib cases have been identified in the following EU countries: SpainItalyPortugalThe NetherlandsThe cases have been also identified in the United States. While the number of cased remains limited, experts have earned that the virus could travel further without preventive measures in place.What Is Mpox?It is formerly known as the monkeypox, is a mild viral infection. However, in some cases, it can cause severe illness. The best line of defense in this case is vaccination. Travelling In EU Could Be RiskyWith the Winter Pride season approaching across Europe, as notes the BBC, health charities are also urging people to get vaccinated, especially those who plan to attend crowded events or travel abroad. Richard Angell OBE, chief executive of the Terrence Higgins Trust, said, “With Winter Pride season soon upon us across Europe, those travelling to these events would be wise to get vaccinated, at least once, if not twice.”Dr. Katy Sinka, head of sexually transmitted infections at UKHSA, reiterated the importance of vaccination: “The ways in which we are seeing Mpox continue to spread globally is a reminder to come forward for the vaccine, if you are eligible,” as reported by BBC. Who Should Get the Vaccine?The vaccine is currently recommended for individuals at higher risk of exposure, primarily GBMSM, and those who:Have multiple sexual partnersParticipate in group sexVisit sex-on-premises venuesAdditionally, people who work in these venues, including cleaning or service staff, and anyone who has had close contact with a confirmed Mpox case are also eligible, according to NHS guidelines.Is The Vaccine Effective? Is It Available?While the vaccine has not yet been specifically tested against clade Ib, it has shown proven protection against another strain, clade II. UKHSA officials believe similar protection can be expected against this newly spreading variant.Vaccinations are available through sexual health services, and NHS advice recommends contacting a local sexual health clinic before visiting to book an appointment. Most people will receive two doses of the vaccine, typically spaced 28 days apart.What Is Happening In Europe Right Now?As of now, there are 16 confirmed cases of clade Ib Mpox in UK, however, there are no signs of community spread within the noted population. Each of these cases have been directly linked to travel in the countries where these strains were already in circulation. Spain also reported its first locally acquired cases, while Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands have reported four additional infections in men. None of these individuals had traveled abroad, suggesting that “a different pattern of transmission” may be emerging within European sexual networks, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook