New Variant of Mpox Emerges in Beijing, Authorities Assure Containment
China Reports Five Cases of Clade 1b Variant, Linked to Imported Infection from Congo
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기사입력 : 2025.01.10 11:06
Beijing has reported five confirmed cases of a new variant of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, sparking concern among health officials. However, Chinese authorities are assuring the public that the outbreak has been "effectively contained" and is being closely monitored.
The newly identified strain, known as Clade 1b, has been traced to a man who recently traveled from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The virus was isolated in four individuals who came into contact with the man, all of whom exhibited mild symptoms. Health officials from China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed that these individuals and others in the risk group are receiving medical care and undergoing monitoring.
This outbreak comes after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency in August over the mpox virus, which has been spreading rapidly across the world, particularly in countries not typically affected. A subsequent warning in November highlighted the rising cases globally, with the disease becoming more prominent in non-endemic regions, including Europe and the Americas.
Understanding the Mpox Variant
The mpox virus has been around since the 1970s and primarily affects rodents in Central and West Africa. Historically, it has been transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, often through consumption or direct handling. The virus causes symptoms similar to smallpox, including fever and pustules, but it is generally less deadly.
In recent years, however, mpox has evolved into a sexually transmitted form, which has led to an increase in cases, especially in urban areas outside of Africa. The Clade 1b variant, which has raised alarms, has been associated with more widespread human-to-human transmission, often through intimate contact. Experts note that this evolution has made the virus harder to control, especially in settings where close contact, such as sexual activity, facilitates its spread.
Current Situation and Global Response
China has been proactive in its response, implementing testing measures for travelers entering the country and announcing a six-month screening initiative. While authorities maintain that the outbreak has been contained, the discovery of the new variant has once again highlighted the ongoing global health threat posed by mpox, especially in light of its rapid transmission and the potential for new variants to emerge.
The World Health Organization continues to monitor the situation closely, stressing the importance of maintaining vigilance, especially as the virus has shown the ability to spread in ways previously unobserved. As health systems around the world prepare for the possibility of further outbreaks, the international community remains on high alert for any new developments regarding the virus.
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