Overview
- Routine genomic sequencing in England identified the recombinant virus in a recent traveller from Asia.
- Analysis shows the genome contains elements of clade Ib and IIb, a combination not previously reported in the UK.
- UKHSA has shared data with international partners and is examining whether the strain changes transmission, severity or test performance.
- Officials have not reported onward spread, and experts describe the risk to the general UK public as low.
- Health authorities urge eligible people to get vaccinated, citing studies that estimate 75–80% protection against mpox.