Travellers Urged to Consider Mpox Vaccine Amid Rising Global Concerns

Travelers heading to Africa are now being advised to consider vaccination against mpox due to recent outbreaks of a new, more dangerous strain of the virus. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has updated its guidelines, reflecting growing concerns about the spread of the virus beyond Africa, with cases expected to emerge in Europe and other continents.

Despite the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declaring the mpox situation a global emergency, the ECDC maintains that the risk of widespread transmission remains low. However, the agency recommends that travelers to affected regions in Africa take precautions, including getting vaccinated.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is transmitted through close contact with an infected individual. The new Clade 1b strain of mpox, which has been spreading rapidly in parts of Africa, is believed to be more easily transmissible and may cause more severe illness.

For those who have previously received the mpox vaccine, the ECDC suggests that a single booster dose may be sufficient, rather than the standard two-shot regimen. Booster doses are typically recommended every two to ten years for those at continued risk of exposure.

Pamela Rendi-Wagner of the ECDC highlighted the increased risk posed to the EU/EEA region due to the close connections between Europe and Africa. “Due to the close links between Europe and Africa, we must be prepared for more imported Clade 1 cases,” she stated.

Currently, no cases of the Clade 1b strain have been confirmed in the UK, but experts warn that without international action, the virus could spread further. The situation underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness as global health authorities continue to monitor and respond to the evolving mpox threat.