Health officials have issued an alert after a deadly strain of Mpox has been detected in a patient who contracted it in Britain rather than abroad.
The case of clade 1b Mpox was diagnosed last month in the North East of England, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Virus experts have warned this likely indicates the disease could be spreading within British communities - but the UKHSA insists the risk remains low.
This marks a significant development in the disease's spread - as all previous UK cases had travel links to affected countries.
The strain, known as clade 1b, has been described by experts as 'the most dangerous one so far'
WHO
The strain, known as clade 1b, has been described by experts as "the most dangerous one so far" with a mortality rate of one in 10 infected individuals.
It is also believed to be behind a wave of miscarriages in affected patients.
Despite the concerning characteristics, the Government has assured that the overall risk to the UK population remains "low".
The UKHSA noted that clade 1a and 1b Mpox are no longer classified as high consequence infectious diseases.
In an update released on April 7, the body confirmed it was conducting further investigations to determine where the individual may have caught the infection.
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The UKHSA also vowed it had 'robust mechanisms in place to investigate suspected cases of Mpox of all clade types'
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"All contacts have been followed up and no further cases identified," the agency said.
The UKHSA also vowed it had "robust mechanisms in place to investigate suspected cases of Mpox of all clade types, irrespective of travel history".
This case represents a change from previous patterns - up until now, all UK cases had either travelled to Mpox-affected countries or had links to someone who had.
UKHSA Mpox Incident Director Dr Gillian Armstrong said: "The risk to the UK population from Mpox remains low.
"The majority of people who have presented with symptoms report close physical contact, including massages, or sex prior to developing symptoms.
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Common symptoms of Mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions
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"Regardless of whether you have travelled or not, it is important to remain alert to the risks. Anyone who thinks they may have Mpox should contact NHS 111 for advice on what to do.
"While Mpox infection is mild for many, it can be severe for some and UKHSA is committed to preventing its spread within the UK."
Common symptoms of Mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions, which typically last between two to four weeks.
Other symptoms can include fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.
