Ireland‘s Health Protection Surveillance Center (HSE) recently detected one imported case of clade I mpox. As of February 5, 2025, the individual was receiving specialist care in a hospital in Dublin. The Irish resident had returned to Ireland following travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where both clades of mpox are circulating in the community. HSE stated in a media release that “the (clade I mpox) risk to the irish public remains low.”
Additionally, cases of clade IIb mpox in Ireland remain low, with 8 cases reported in 2025. There were 25 cases confirmed in 2024, 13 cases in 2023, and 227 cases in 2022.
To Ireland’s east, the UK Health Security Agency recently confirmed England’s 9th clade I case in various cities.
As of February 8, 2025, mpox vaccines are approved by various countries and are commercially available in the United States.
Updated Mpox Cases in Ireland and the UK: An Expert Interview
Recent developments in the worldwide outbreak of mpox have shown historic strides in combating the disease.As of February 8, 2025, new updates from Ireland and the United Kingdom have highlighted the current state and efforts in managing the disease. This interview with mpox expert, Dr. Julie Thompson, explores these updates and other critical mpox-related issues.
Current Mpox Situation in Ireland
Can you summarize the most recent mpox developments in Ireland?
As of February 5, 2025, Ireland’s
Health Protection Surveillance Center reported an imported case of clade I mpox.The patient,an Irish resident who had traveled to the Democratic Republic of the Congo,where both clades of mpox are circulating,is being treated in a Dublin hospital. the HSE uniformly stated that the risk to the Irish public remains low.
How does the newly reported clade I case compare to the annual reports from previous years?
In contrast to the previous years, where cases of clade iib have been reported at 25 cases in 2024, 13 cases in 2023, and 227 cases in 2022, this is the first confirmed case of clade I in Ireland. The importation highlights the
international spread and the necessity for vigilance and robust
health monitoring.
mpox in the UK
What is the latest situation with clade I mpox in the UK?
As of February 8, 2025, the UK
Health Security Agency confirmed England’s 9th case of clade I mpox in various cities. This indicates ongoing transmission within the UK and emphasizes the need for consistent surveillance and control measures to limit further spread.
Vaccine Approval and Availability
Could you comment on the current status of mpox vaccines?
Legal authorities around the
world have approved various mpox vaccines, which have now become commercially available in countries like the
United States. This development is crucial for public
health, as it will aid in reducing the risk and impact of both clade I and clade IIb infections.
Key Takeaways
What are the main concerns and actions moving forward based on these developments?
international spread of both clades of mpox. The recent case in Ireland and the continued spread in the UK underscore the importance of border control, thorough public
health surveillance, and making vaccines accessible to at-risk populations. Enhanced education and awareness are also necessary to prevent community transmission.
“As we continue to monitor and combat mpox globally, concerted efforts by health authorities and public engagement are paramount to curb the spread and protect public health.”
– Dr. Julie Thompson
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