Sweden confirms first case of contagious mpox virus
Sweden has just confirmed its first case of the viral monkeypox variant known as Clade I, and it’s making headlines for being the first case of this serious strain outside Africa!
Today, Swedish health officials announced that this ‘more serious variant’ of mpox has been identified in the country, marking a significant development in the ongoing global health situation. The infected individual had recently traveled to a region in Africa currently battling a major outbreak of Clade I.
State epidemiologist Magnus Gisslén shared, “This case involves a person infected during a stay in an area of Africa experiencing a significant outbreak of mpox Clade I. The individual in Sweden is receiving care and is following all necessary health guidelines.”
This news comes on the heels of the World Health Organization declaring mpox a global health emergency for the second time in just two years. The new strain has already been detected in over a dozen countries, following an alarming outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has resulted in more than 500 deaths. The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has called for international assistance to combat this escalating crisis.
Swedish Health and Social Affairs Minister, Jakob Forssmed, confirmed the news at a press conference, saying, “This afternoon, we received confirmation of one case in Sweden of the more severe type of mpox, known as Clade I.”
The Public Health Agency has assured the public that the patient does not pose a risk to the general population, labeling the infection as a ‘special event.’ Olivia Wigzel, the acting director general at the agency, highlighted the significance of this being the first Clade I case diagnosed outside of Africa.
While the Clade I variant causes the same symptoms as the earlier strain previously found in Sweden, it is believed to carry a higher risk of severe illness and increased mortality.
The global concern around this new strain is growing, as it spreads not only through close human contact but also from animals to humans. Common symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, and a distinct skin rash.
Health authorities urge anyone who suspects they may have contracted mpox to contact a sexual health clinic immediately.
As the situation develops, it’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant.
