The 2022 monkeypox outbreak 1 year on: The 5 Ws.

Area of Science:

• * Epidemiology and Public Health
• * Infectious Diseases
• * Viral Zoonoses

Background:

• * Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a zoonotic viral disease typically endemic to Central and West Africa.
• * In May 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) identified an unusual Mpox outbreak in non-endemic European countries.
• * The rapid global spread led the WHO to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To retrospectively analyze the 2022 Mpox outbreak using the 5 Ws (What, When, Where, Who, Why).
• * To understand the emergence and effective management strategies of the global Mpox outbreak.
• * To identify key measures for preventing future emerging and re-emerging viral infections.

Main Methods:

• * Retrospective analysis of the 2022 Mpox outbreak.
• * Review of epidemiological data and public health responses.
• * Synthesis of information based on the 5 Ws framework.

Main Results:

• * The outbreak involved 87,704 confirmed cases and 140 deaths across 111 countries by May 15, 2023.
• * Mpox emerged outside endemic regions, necessitating a global public health response.
• * Effective management strategies were implemented to control the spread.

Conclusions:

• * Understanding outbreak origins and spread is crucial for effective management.
• * Preparedness for emerging and re-emerging viral diseases is essential.
• * International collaboration and rapid response are vital for mitigating public health emergencies.