"Officials say they are still assessing the significance of the new strain. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says it is normal for viruses to evolve. Getting vaccinated remains the best way to protect against severe disease - although an mpox infection is mild for many. The new virus strain contains elements of two mpox strains, called clade Ib and clade IIb."
"Dr Katy Sinka, head of sexually transmitted infections at UKHSA, said genomic testing had allowed detection of the new strain. "It's normal for viruses to evolve, and further analysis will help us understand more about how mpox is changing. "Getting vaccinated is a proven effective way to protect yourself against severe disease, so please make sure to get the jab if you are eligible," she said."
A new hybrid mpox strain containing elements of clade Ib and clade IIb was detected in a person in England who recently returned from travel in Asia. Authorities are assessing the significance of the mixed-strain virus. Genomic testing enabled identification of the new strain. Vaccination remains the best protection against severe mpox, though many infections are mild. Vaccination is offered to people at highest risk: those with multiple sexual partners, those who engage in group sex, and visitors to sex-on-premises venues. Existing studies show 75–80% vaccine effectiveness against clade II; protection against clade Ib has not yet been studied but is expected to be high.
Read at www.bbc.com
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