First Mpox Case in Sweden Linked to African Outbreak

The World Health Organization has confirmed a case of mpox in Sweden connected to the recent outbreak in Africa. This is the first case outside the continent, a day after WHO declared the disease a global public health emergency. The infection involves the serious clade Ib type of the virus.

The World Health Organization on Thursday confirmed that a case of the viral infection mpox in Sweden was linked to an outbreak in Africa. This marks the first instance of the disease spreading outside the continent, occurring just one day after WHO declared the illness a global public health emergency.

Swedish health officials revealed that the person contracted the clade Ib type of mpox while in Africa. This clade is involved in the current outbreak and is being treated. The infection is considered more serious compared to previous variants.

Meanwhile, U.S. and Canadian officials have reported no cases so far. WHO had earlier declared a public health emergency in Africa after the disease spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries. Mpox is primarily transmitted through close contact.

(With inputs from agencies.)