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Updated: Aug 26, 2025
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Vaccinia Virus Infection & Temporal Analysis of Virus Gene Expression: Part 1
Published on: April 8, 2009
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Monkeypox virus: The changing facets of a zoonotic pathogen
Diego Forni1, Rachele Cagliani1, Cristian Molteni1
1IRCCS E. MEDEA, Bioinformatics, Bosisio Parini, Italy.
Summary
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) cases are rising globally, prompting a public health emergency. Genomic analysis reveals MPXV is evolving via point mutations, raising concerns about new reservoirs despite available vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Genomics
Background:
- Monkeypox virus (MPXV) cases have surged globally and in endemic regions, leading to a public health emergency declaration by the WHO in July 2022.
- MPXV belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes variola virus (smallpox) and vaccinia virus.
- Understanding MPXV's genetic diversity and epidemiology is crucial for controlling the current outbreak.
Conclusions:
- While vaccines and disease characteristics favor outbreak control, MPXV's broad host range poses a risk for reservoir establishment.
- Genomic surveillance and field surveys are essential to identify and manage MPXV reservoirs in West and Central Africa.
- Continued monitoring of MPXV evolution and epidemiology is critical for public health preparedness.
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