China Identifies Cluster of Mpox Infections Linked to Foreign Traveler

China Identifies Cluster of Mpox Infections

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) recently announced the identification of a cluster of clade Ib mpox infections in China. The source of the infection was traced to a foreign traveler who had visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Following the detection of the cluster, national and provincial-level collaborative control and prevention measures were implemented in Zhejiang and Guangdong provinces, as well as Beijing and Tianjin. Epidemiological investigations, risk assessment, and case diagnoses are currently underway.

Four cases have been confirmed among close contacts of the infected individual. These cases are primarily characterized by mild symptoms, including skin rashes and lesions. As of now, no infections have been reported among general contacts.

Those who have tested positive, along with individuals considered at risk, are receiving medical care and are under observation. The China CDC stated that the cluster outbreak has been effectively managed.

A Brief Overview

Clade Ib mpox was first detected in September 2023 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has since spread to neighboring countries and beyond Africa starting in July 2024.

According to the World Health Organization, mpox spreads primarily through close contact with an infected person. This includes skin-to-skin contact (such as touching or sex), mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-skin contact (such as kissing), and face-to-face interactions. Household members are also at risk.