EU Raises Mpox Risk Level Amid New Strain Emergences in Europe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has elevated the mpox risk level to 'moderate' after confirming a case of a new strain in Sweden. The World Health Organization declared mpox a global public health emergency. The virus, causing pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, has two spreading strains.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) on Friday increased its risk assessment for mpox, a day after global health officials verified the first infection with a new strain outside Africa in Sweden. The EU public health body's head foresaw more imported cases in the coming weeks, although the risk of sustained transmission remains low.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighboring countries. The global health body plans to host an emergency meeting to discuss equitable access to tests, treatments, and vaccines for the virus.

Mpox, a viral infection resulting in pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is generally mild but can be lethal. Two strains are circulating in Congo: the endemic clade I and a new offshoot, clade Ib. The ECDC raised its risk level from 'low' to 'moderate' and advised European countries to remain vigilant among travelers from affected regions. Despite the rising threat, the WHO has not recommended any travel restrictions.