Health officials in England have identified a new variant of mpox after a recent traveller returning from Asia tested positive for the virus. Genetic analysis revealed that the strain is a recombinant form, combining elements of clade 1, the more severe type, and clade 2, the less virulent strain responsible for the 2022 global outbreak.
The UK Health Security Agency said it is assessing the significance of the new variant but stressed that viral evolution is normal. Officials urged eligible individuals — including those at higher sexual risk — to receive vaccination as a precaution.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, spreads through close physical contact, contaminated materials, or respiratory droplets, and can also be contracted from infected animals. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue, followed by a rash appearing within a few days.
The emergence of the recombinant strain highlights the need for continued monitoring as both major clades remain in circulation. Global mpox cases recorded by the WHO in 2025 reached nearly 48,000 across 94 countries, with more than 200 deaths. Researchers say tracking any new cases will be key to determining whether this variant poses increased risk.
