First Monkeypox Technical Briefing Published

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recently published its first technical briefing on the ongoing monkeypox (MPX) outbreak. As of June 10, 2022, the UKHSA has identified several aspects of this outbreak that require further investigation. 

This first publication includes updated epidemiological data, with evidence from anonymized detailed interviews with patients, which are helping us to understand transmission and to determine how to target interventions.

The total number of confirmed MPX patients in the UK was 366, with 348 in England as of June 9, 2022.

Currently, England is judged to be in Level 2 out of 4.

The highest level indicates the potential for endemic and local epi-zoonotic disease.

Of the cases interviewed, 81% were known to be London residents, and 99% were male.

The median age of confirmed cases in the UK was 38 years old, and most were men.

Many London patients confirmed travels within Europe 21 days before symptom onset was reported.

The UKHSA also shared a preliminary assessment of the genomic differences between the outbreak virus and previous monkeypox viruses (MPXV).

There is a small subset of MPXV mutations in proteins involved in virus transmission, virulence, or interaction with antiviral drugs. 

'We will be working to investigate the significance of the (MPXV) mutations identified so far to determine if they will have any impact on the virus' behavior.'

Dr. Meera Chand, Director of Clinical and Emerging Infections, UKHSA, stated in a media release issued on June 10, 2022, "We are working, both in the UK and together with global partners, to progress the investigations that we need to help us better understand the virus, its transmission and the best use of mitigations such as vaccines and treatments."

"We use the new data rapidly to inform the public health response, and we continue to work to reduce transmission."

"We are grateful to all those who have come forward for testing and the patients who continue to help us understand the outbreak through participating in studies and investigations."

Globally, BNO News reported forty-two countries had confirmed about 1,620 MPX potential cases on June 11, 2022.

In the USA, the CDC confirmed on June 10, 2022, that sixteen states and Washington D.C. had reported (49) MPX patients.

And most of the MPX patient's close contacts have been offered the Jynneos vaccine by the CDC or local health authorities.

Note: This monkeypox outbreak information was manually curated for mobile readership and posted at Vax-Before-Travel.