Updated Monkeypox Awareness and Clade 1 Strain Information

Background: On August 15, 2024, Sweden reported the first case of the Monkeypox Clade 1 strain outside of Africa. This strain, which has been primarily associated with severe outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is more dangerous and has a higher fatality rate compared to other Mpox strains. Given its severity, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared this outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)​ (DW)​ (livescience.com).

Monkeypox Vaccination and Our Response

Vaccination Efforts:

  • Most of Our Team Vaccinated: We have taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of our team by encouraging and facilitating vaccinations. The majority of our team members have already received their vaccines.
  • Vaccines Available: Imvanex in the EU and Jynneos in the US are the primary vaccines, both based on the Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus. These vaccines are safe and effective against Mpox, including the Clade 1 strain.

Efficacy and Protection:

  • High Efficacy: These vaccines offer at least 85% protection against Mpox, including the newly emerging Clade 1 strain, which is known for causing more severe symptoms and higher mortality rates​ (GulfNews).
  • Vaccination Protocol: Two doses, 28 days apart, are recommended for full protection. If previously vaccinated against smallpox, one dose may suffice.

New Clade 1 Strain Details:

  • Severity: Clade 1 viruses, such as the one reported in Sweden, can have a case-fatality rate of up to 10%, much higher than the Clade 2 strain that caused the 2022-2023 global outbreak​ (CIDRAP).
  • Transmission and Spread: This variant has been responsible for a significant number of cases in central Africa, with infections spreading to other African nations and now, for the first time, outside the continent​ (livescience.com).

Pre- and Post-Vaccination Guidance:

  • Precautions: Avoid strenuous activities for a few days post-vaccination, and consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any adverse effects.
  • Monitoring: We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to update our safety protocols as needed.

By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we aim to protect our team and clients from this more dangerous variant. For more detailed information on the Clade 1 strain and its implications, please refer to source like DW.