The Health Ministry of Malta has announced the confirmation of a second case of Mpox, a viral disease, in a Maltese resident who contracted the virus through sexual activity locally. The patient is currently clinically stable and does not require hospitalisation. This latest case follows the first reported case of Mpox in Malta last week, which was identified as Clade II, a less severe strain of the virus, after extensive laboratory testing and analysis.
The Health Ministry has emphasised that contact tracing efforts are underway to prevent further transmission of the virus. Additionally, further testing is being carried out to identify the specific Clade of the Mpox virus of this latest case.
Mpox is a viral disease that has two distinct strains: Clade I and Clade II. Clade I is predominantly found in Central Africa and is associated with more severe illness and higher mortality rates. Due to its severity, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Clade I a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. On the other hand, Clade II, which is less severe and has a significantly lower mortality rate, is responsible for the ongoing global outbreak that began in 2022. This strain is primarily spread through sexual contact.
Prior to these two confirmed cases, Malta had investigated 35 cases in relation to the global outbreak up until 2023. Both of the confirmed cases in Malta fall under Clade II.
In light of the confirmed Mpox cases, the Health Authorities have issued guidelines to curb the spread of the virus. These guidelines emphasise the importance of practising safe sex and engaging in open conversations with partners about sexual health. The public is advised to avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have a rash resembling Mpox and to maintain good hand hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Caution is also urged during social gatherings and intimate contact, particularly avoiding sharing personal items like towels, bedding, and clothing with infected individuals. Additionally, anyone experiencing symptoms or who has been in contact with someone diagnosed with Mpox should seek medical advice promptly.The public is urged to stay informed and adhere to the recommended guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being.
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