Mpox: Risks and approaches to prevention

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The Mpox (formerly monkeypox) virus outbreak, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO in July 2022, necessitates robust infection prevention and control strategies.
• Mpox transmission occurs through direct, indirect, prolonged contact, sexual transmission, and respiratory routes, posing risks to specific populations.
• High-risk groups include men who have sex with men, home pet-raisers, healthcare workers, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and children, with potential for animal spillover.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on Mpox risk management.
• To outline effective preventive strategies for the ongoing Mpox outbreak.
• To emphasize the importance of risk communication and community engagement.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent scientific findings on Mpox.
• Analysis of transmission routes and risk factors.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on prevention and control measures.

Main Results:

• Mpox risk assessment involves qualitative and quantitative determination of infection risks.
• Effective control requires tailored prevention measures considering transmission dynamics and vulnerable groups.
• Vaccine availability is a key factor in outbreak containment.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive risk management and preventive strategies are critical to control the global Mpox outbreak.
• Community engagement and clear risk communication are essential for effective public health interventions.
• Preventing further viral spread requires a multi-faceted approach including vaccination and targeted control measures.