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New Mpox Variant Detected in France
France has reported its first case of a new variant of the mpox virus, according to the health ministry. This comes weeks after the World Health Organization (WHO) upheld its highest alert level regarding the ongoing epidemic.
The confirmed case involves the clade 1b variant, identified in the Brittany region. Authorities have implemented recommended monitoring measures to address the situation.
Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox and related to smallpox, is caused by a virus that can be transmitted to humans by infected animals or through close physical contact with infected individuals. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and large skin lesions resembling boils, which can sometimes lead to severe outcomes.
The WHO declared the virus a global emergency in August and renewed the alert in late November following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The French health ministry noted that the case involves a person who had not traveled to Central Africa, where various variants of the virus have been circulating. However, this individual had contact with two people who recently returned from the region. Investigations are underway to trace the infection source and identify other potential contacts.
The clade 1b variant, along with other mpox strains, has been reported in 80 countries this year, including 19 in Africa. The WHO has urged European countries to prepare for swift measures to contain the spread of the new variant.