Sweden Reports First Case of Mpox Outside Africa Amid Global Health Emergency

Sweden has confirmed its first case of mpox, marking the first instance of the viral infection being detected outside of Africa. The announcement came just a day after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years. The infected individual contracted the disease while staying in a region of Africa currently experiencing a significant outbreak, according to Olivia Wigzell, the Director-General of the Swedish Public Health Agency.

The WHO’s declaration follows a concerning spread of the virus from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries, involving a more severe strain of the disease known as Clade I. Sweden’s Health and Social Affairs Minister, Jakob Forssmed, confirmed that the country has identified one case of this more serious strain. The infected person has received appropriate medical care and guidance in accordance with the Swedish health agency’s recommendations.

This case is particularly notable as it is the first time Clade I mpox has been diagnosed outside the African continent. Swedish health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have emphasized the importance of following public health guidelines to prevent further spread. The WHO’s decision to classify mpox as a global health emergency underscores the need for international cooperation and vigilance in addressing this outbreak.