A newly identified strain of the mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, has been confirmed in England after a traveller returned from Asia, according to UK health authorities. The case involves a recombinant form combining genetic elements of clade Ib and clade IIb, and health officials are now analysing its potential impact, reports The WP Times citing the BBC.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated that viral evolution is normal and expected, emphasising that vaccination remains the most effective method for preventing severe disease. Although mpox infections are often mild, the agency stressed that immunisation continues to be a crucial protective measure, particularly for those at higher risk of exposure.
The newly detected variant has not yet been given an official designation, but laboratory sequencing confirmed that it contains components of two major genetic lineages. The clade Ib type has recently shown early signs of limited local transmission in several European countries, while clade IIb was associated with the widespread global mpox outbreak in 2022 that affected numerous regions across the world.
UK health officials recently urged gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men to ensure they are vaccinated, noting that certain behaviours — such as multiple sexual partners, participation in group sex or frequenting sex-on-premises venues — increase exposure risk. Based on current data, the existing vaccine is estimated to provide 75–80% protection against mpox.
There have been no direct studies on vaccine effectiveness specifically against this new recombinant strain. However, experts believe the level of protection will likely remain high. Dr. Katy Sinka, who leads sexually transmitted infection programmes at UKHSA, said genomic testing allowed for the rapid detection of this variant and will support ongoing monitoring efforts.
Prof. Trudie Lang, director of the Global Health Network at the University of Oxford, highlighted that the UK maintains strong surveillance and containment systems. She cautioned, however, that in regions with limited medical resources and restricted vaccine access, controlling the spread of mpox remains significantly more challenging. Should cases linked to the new strain emerge in the UK or internationally, researchers will need to assess transmission patterns and clinical severity to determine how it compares with past variants.
Nearly 48,000 confirmed mpox cases have been recorded globally in 2025, including around 2,500 in the past month, with central African nations accounting for most reports. Dr. Boghuma Titanji of Emory University said the emergence of a recombinant strain aligns with long-standing concerns among virologists: continued global circulation gives the virus more opportunities to adapt, recombine and become entrenched as a persistent human pathogen.
Typical mpox symptoms include skin lesions or rashes lasting two to four weeks, fever, body aches, headaches, fatigue and back pain. The virus spreads through close physical contact, respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, and touching contaminated bedding, towels or clothing. UK health services advise anyone who suspects infection to contact NHS 111 for guidance.
Read about the life of Westminster and Pimlico district, London and the world. 24/7 news with fresh and useful updates on culture, business, technology and city life: Protein for Dogs: Allergies, Kidney Disease, and UK Veterinary Advice
