Travelers have been put on alert as new cases of the clade Ib strain of mpox have emerged in Austria and Sweden. Health experts from Travel Health Pro highlight that since early February 2026, six cases have been confirmed in Austria and seven in Sweden. This alarming trend signals a need for heightened awareness among travelers heading to or returning from these countries.

The clade Ib strain is noted for being more transmissible than the previously dominant clade II strain, which had led to an outbreak in the UK during 2022. The emergence of this new strain raises concerns about potential outbreaks, especially in light of the virus’s higher contagion rates. Health authorities are now urging travelers to take proactive steps to safeguard their health and that of others.

In their advisory, Travel Health Pro emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks associated with travel to regions where these cases have been reported. They recommend that individuals take extra precautions, which could include health monitoring and preventive measures. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by mpox and the need for vigilance in public health response as the virus evolves and spreads.