Travel-related importation risk of mpox from Hong Kong to Shenzhen in 2023: A modeling study

Mpox, a viral zoonotic disease formerly known as monkeypox, has gained global attention following a multi-country outbreak in 2022-23, primarily linked to close intimate contact. In China, mpox cases surged in June 2023, with nearly a quarter of new cases concentrated in Guangdong Province, particularly Shenzhen. This study aimed to estimate the importation risk of mpox cases from Hong Kong to Shenzhen in 2023, utilizing cross-regional population mobility data from January to October 2023. The analysis focused on local transmission in Hong Kong and the probability of mpox importation into Shenzhen. Results revealed a significant importation risk, with over a 50 % chance of at least one travel-based mpox case from Hong Kong in June 2023. The study underscores the necessity of enhancing inbound surveillance for travelers from high mpox prevalence regions. It is suggested that regional governments implement tailored strategies, including enhanced surveillance and dynamic risk assessment for effective cross-border disease management, supported by robust monitoring and coordinated actions across jurisdictions.