Mpox across countries from Central and Eastern Europe - 2022 outbreak

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Mpox (formerly monkeypox) outbreaks have presented unique challenges globally.
• Understanding the characteristics of affected populations is vital for effective control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the socio-demographic profiles of mpox patients.
• To describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of mpox.
• To compare mpox patient data based on HIV status and country of origin.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among 154 mpox patients across 14 Central and Eastern European countries in 2022.
• Mpox diagnosis was confirmed via RT-PCR on various biological samples.
• Data were analyzed comparing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive and negative individuals, and patients from EU vs. non-EU countries.

Main Results:

• The study population was 99.3% male, with a median age of 35, predominantly men who have sex with men (MSM) (90.2%), and 48.7% were people living with HIV (PLWH).
• PLWH and individuals from EU countries exhibited higher rates of high-risk sexual behaviors, including chemsex, group sex, and a history of STIs.
• Common symptoms included fever, lymphadenopathy, and vesiculo-pustular rash. Hospitalization occurred in 31% of cases, with all patients experiencing favorable outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Mpox disproportionately impacts young MSM with high-risk behaviors and a history of STIs.
• Robust contact tracing and vaccination initiatives are essential for managing mpox outbreaks.
• Further research into specific risk factors and outcomes among different populations is warranted.