Colombia Confirms Second Mpox Clade Ib Case in Bogotá

Colombian health authorities have confirmed the detection of a second case of mpox clado Ib in Bogotá. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection, along with the National Institute of Health (INS), announced the case on May 1, 2026.

The patient, who arrived in Bogotá from Madrid, is currently in home isolation under clinical monitoring. Health officials have activated an epidemiological fence to prevent further spread, though they emphasize that there is currently no evidence of community transmission within the city.

Understanding Clade Ib

The identified case involves clade Ib, a specific variant of the mpox virus. Health authorities have noted that this subvariant has a higher capacity for transmission than previous strains, which has placed sanitary agencies on high alert.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease. While it caused a significant global outbreak in 2022, the emergence of new clades has led to renewed international concern and updated public health responses.

Public Health Response and Surveillance

Following the confirmation of the diagnosis, the Ministry of Health initiated an investigation to identify any potential contacts the patient may have had since their arrival from Spain. The implementation of the epidemiological fence is part of a standard protocol to contain the virus at the source and prevent local clusters.

Authorities in Bogotá are maintaining intensified surveillance and have reinforced epidemiological monitoring. The goal is to ensure early detection of any secondary cases and to manage the isolation of infected individuals effectively.

Prevention and Protection

In response to the confirmed cases in the capital, health guidance focuses on avoiding close contact with individuals who show symptoms of the virus. Mpox typically presents with a rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

Public health officials recommend the following preventive measures:

• Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with people who have a suspected or confirmed rash.
• Avoiding contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing used by an infected person.
• Practicing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers.
• Seeking immediate medical attention if a fever or unexplained rash develops.

The current situation in Bogotá remains under control, with the patient isolated and the health system monitoring for further arrivals or local transmissions of the clade Ib variant.