Manitoba Confirms Canada’s First Case of New Mpox Strain, Clade Ib
Manitoba has reported Canada’s first confirmed case of the newly identified clade Ib strain of mpox, previously known as monkeypox. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed this development on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s public health monitoring.
What is Clade Ib Mpox?
Mpox viruses are categorized into two primary clades: clade I and clade II. Clade I, which includes the Ib sublineage, is considered more severe and historically associated with higher mortality rates. Unlike clade II, responsible for the global outbreak in 2022 characterized by milder symptoms and transmission via sexual contact, clade I has traditionally been linked to zoonotic infections in rural regions of the Congo.
However, research conducted earlier this year by a Canadian-Congolese team identified clade Ib as a lineage capable of efficient human-to-human transmission. This strain has primarily affected vulnerable populations, including sex workers, in central and eastern Africa.
Details of the Manitoba Case
The Manitoba case is linked to travel and associated with an ongoing clade I mpox outbreak in Africa. The individual developed symptoms shortly after returning to Canada and is now isolating. A sample analyzed by Winnipeg’s National Microbiology Laboratory confirmed the clade Ib diagnosis.
The province has stated it will not release further identifying information to protect the individual’s privacy. Public health officials are conducting contact tracing as part of their investigation.
Public Health Risk and Transmission
The overall risk to the general public remains low, according to Manitoba’s health authorities. Mpox is primarily transmitted through close personal contact, including sexual contact or exposure to contaminated materials like bedding or towels. Both clades of the virus can spread in this manner.
While mpox symptoms are often mild—characterized by pox-like lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes—severe cases can occur, particularly with clade I strains. The province emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms arise, especially after travel to regions experiencing mpox outbreaks.
A Broader Global Context
The emergence of clade Ib in Canada reflects a growing trend of travel-associated cases globally. Similar infections have recently been reported in the United States, underscoring the need for vigilance in monitoring international outbreaks.
Health Canada advises the public to stay informed about mpox risks, particularly for those traveling to affected regions. Preventative measures such as avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals and maintaining hygiene around potentially contaminated items remain key.
For more information on mpox and its symptoms, visit Health Canada’s website.
Source : Swifteradio.com
