On Wednesday 14 August 2024, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the recent upsurge in mpox cases a global health emergency.
As of Tuesday 20 August 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported more than 16,000 cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) since the beginning of the year – a significant increase in the total cases in 2023. The current consensus states that the rise in cases is due to a new strain, mpox Clade 1.
The latest advice is the result of an IHR Emergency Committee decision, which met to review data presented by experts from WHO and affected countries. There are concerns that the disease could spread further across Africa and across continents. Following the WHO’s decision, the first case of the new strain was detected in Sweden, with the affected individual seeking treatment in Stockholm.
In 2023, a nationwide mpox outbreak vaccination programme targeted those most at risk in the UK. Vaccinated individuals were primarily in interconnected networks of gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men.
At the time, Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at UKHSA (UK Health Security Agency), said, “It is vital we respond to recent rises in cases, and that is why we are extending mpox vaccinations in London… While mpox infection is mild for many, it can cause severe symptoms, including unusual rashes and blisters, a fever and headache, so it’s important people remain alert to the risks. Vaccination is key to reducing the severity of symptoms and preventing further transmission.”
Who’s entitled to a mpox vaccine?
In the UK, the NHS is offering smallpox vaccination to people who are most likely to be exposed to mpox. Currently, this includes:
- Men who are gay, bisexual or have sex with other men, and who have multiple partners, participate in group sex or attend sex-on-premises venues
- Staff who work at sex-on-premises venues
If you believe you’re at risk, vaccination sites can be found at nhs.uk.
Do I need the mpox vaccine to travel?
As of Tuesday 20 August, there is no official call for general travellers to be vaccinated against mpox ahead of their holidays.
However, the advice is slightly different and developing for travellers planning to visit affected areas. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has updated its advice, stating that travellers visiting “epidemic areas” should “consult their healthcare provider or travel health clinic regarding eligibility for vaccination against mpox”.