Foreign Office issues mpox update as UK tourists told to 'take measures to reduce risk'

An mpox warning has been issued by the British Foreign Office after a Clade I case, a type of strain of the virus, was detected in Canada. The less severe Clade II mpox has been circulating in Canada since 2022, but the first Clade I case was identified on November 22.

Mpox is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. That can be accompanies by other symptoms like fever, chills, headache, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes and back, joint or muscle pain. In rare circumstances, it can be fatal.

Several countries including the UK have been affected by Mpox outbreaks, however Clade I outbreaks had previously only been traced in central and eastern Africa. The one case confirmed in an individual in Manitoba, central Canada, is described as a 'travel-related case'.

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The individual sought medical care for mpox symptoms in Canada shortly after their return to the country and is currently isolating, authorities said. A public health investigation, including contact tracing, is ongoing.

The risk to the general population in Canada, including tourists, remains low. However the country's Public Health Agency has advised people travelling to countries experiencing outbreaks to take measures to reduce their risk, including avoiding contact with anyone who has symptoms of mpox or who may have been exposed.

Individuals who have come into contact with someone who has, or could have, mpox is advised to monitor for symptoms and contact their health care provider. People with symptoms are being told to immediately isolate and, if travelling, tell a flight attendant before they land or the border services officer as they enter the country.

The British Foreign Office has told travellers heading to Canada to check the Public Health Authority's website for updates on the outbreak. Tourists have also been told to check the latest vaccine recommendations for Canada at least eight weeks before their trip.