What is the future of Mpox outbreak?

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Mpox virus (Orthopoxvirus genus).
• Historically endemic to Central and West Africa, a 2022 global outbreak spread to non-endemic regions.
• The 2022 outbreak was controlled by public health interventions, vaccination, and behavioral changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the future trajectory of Mpox outbreaks.
• To examine current knowledge of the Mpox virus.
• To identify challenges in managing Mpox and areas for future research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Mpox epidemiology and virology.
• Analysis of public health response strategies.
• Assessment of diagnostic and healthcare access challenges.

Main Results:

• A 2022 global Mpox outbreak was contained in many regions outside Africa.
• A resurgence of Mpox, driven by the Clade Ib variant, began in Africa in 2023.
• Limited diagnostic infrastructure and healthcare access exacerbate outbreaks.

Conclusions:

• The emergence of the Mpox Clade Ib variant necessitates ongoing surveillance and intervention.
• Addressing healthcare access and diagnostic limitations is crucial for future outbreak control.
• Further research is required to understand Mpox transmission dynamics and develop effective countermeasures.