Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UK Confirms Recombinant Mpox Case as Sequencing Flags Ib–IIb Lineage

Genomic analysis of an imported infection identified a recombinant strain, prompting UKHSA contact tracing, isolation and vaccine-efficacy reviews.

Overview

  • UKHSA confirmed a single travel-associated mpox case in England, with the patient in isolation, contacts under follow-up and no secondary cases reported so far.
  • Sequencing showed a recombinant virus with elements of clades Ib and IIb, a pattern the agency says can occur where multiple lineages co-circulate.
  • Reports differ on the patient’s recent travel destination, but officials describe the case as imported while investigations continue.
  • UKHSA has shared findings with the WHO and partners to bolster global surveillance and coordinate assessment of any public-health implications.
  • Labs are evaluating protection from the MVA‑BN vaccine as studies estimate 75–80% effectiveness overall, while Mexico reports ongoing clade II circulation without Ib detections.