India Reports First MPOX Clade 1 Case - What Does It Mean

India has reported its first case of MPOX clade 1, which was confirmed last week in Malappuram, Kerala. The patient, a 38-year-old man who travelled from the UAE, has been diagnosed with the more severe strain of the mpox virus. This particular clade prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency last year due to its rapid spread.

What Is MPOX?

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that spreads through close contact between individuals, including sexual or intimate contact, and contact with contaminated materials like bed linens. There are two major strains, or clades, of mpox: clade I and clade II. While clade II was responsible for the global outbreak in 2022, clade I has traditionally been found only in Central African countries, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Why Is Clade 1 Concerning?

Clade I is associated with more severe symptoms and increased human-to-human transmission compared to clade II. It causes a more pronounced rash and tends to spread through close and prolonged contact. The severity of the disease has led to concerns over the risk of greater outbreaks in areas where healthcare resources might be limited.

What Are The Symptoms?

Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that develops into blisters. The rash typically appears a few days after the initial symptoms, starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body. Swollen lymph nodes, joint pain, and exhaustion are also common. In more severe cases, the infection can cause significant health complications.

The UK Health Security Agency has noted that clade I infections have the potential to spread beyond Africa, as seen with the current case in India. It has urged healthcare systems worldwide to remain vigilant. The WHO continues to assess the global risk, working with international partners to ensure countries are prepared to respond to possible outbreaks.