Mpox Outbreak 2024: Understanding the Clade 1b Variant and Its Implications

Mpox Clade 1b: A Growing Concern

New Delhi: The latest variant of mpox clade 1b is causing infections globally, particularly in Africa. According to a study led by international researchers, this variant is not only more infectious but also raises a high risk of miscarriage. Genetic analyses indicated that clade 1b, first detected in September 2023 in Kamituga, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has undergone mutations enhancing human transmission.

Key Findings from the Study

• The study, published in Nature Medicine, identified three new subvariants of clade 1b.
• One subvariant has spread to various cities in the DRC, neighboring countries, and internationally, including Sweden and Thailand.
• The United States has reported four cases since November last year linked to clade 1b.

The research team discovered that approximately 52.4% of the patients infected were women, highlighting the variant's capacity to infect both genders. Tragically, of the 14 tested pregnant women, 8 experienced miscarriages.

Professor Frank Moller Aarestrup from DTU National Food Institute in Denmark stated, “One particular subvariant appears to transmit better among humans, now detected in several countries outside East Africa.” This observation is alarming as it indicates evolving transmission patterns.

Public Health Recommendations

The researchers emphasize the urgency to avoid close contacts in regions deemed high-risk and to strengthen cross-border collaboration for disease tracking and healthcare education among vulnerable populations, especially sex workers.