Mpox: An Overview of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Public Health Implications

Francesco Branda1, Chiara Romano1, Massimo Ciccozzi1

  • 1Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 00128 Rome, Italy.

PubMed

Insights

Mpox (monkeypox) is an emerging viral threat. This review details its epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis, highlighting risks and control strategies for human and animal health.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Mpox, caused by Orthopoxvirus, poses a growing risk to humans and animals due to increased human-wildlife interaction.
  • Urbanization and closer contact with wild animals elevate the threat of Mpox transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an in-depth review of Mpox epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis.
  • To highlight recent advancements in understanding Mpox, including viral replication mechanisms and transmission risks.
  • To critically analyze current diagnostic methods and explore future improvements.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on recent scientific discoveries and advances in Mpox research.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data, pathogenesis studies, and diagnostic methodologies.
  • Examination of public health strategies, including surveillance and vaccination.

Main Results:

  • Mpox virus (genus Orthopoxvirus) presents an increasing zoonotic risk.
  • Understanding viral replication and interspecific transmission factors is crucial.
  • Current diagnostic tools have limitations, necessitating advancements in accuracy and speed.

Conclusions:

  • Effective Mpox management requires robust epidemiological surveillance, vaccination programs, and emergency preparedness.
  • Mitigating Mpox requires a comprehensive approach to protect both human and animal health.
  • Addressing interspecific transmission is key to preventing widespread outbreaks.

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