Global Trends in MPOX Research (2014-2025): A Bibliometric Analysis and Overview

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Virology
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• The 2022 global monkeypox outbreak led to a substantial increase in scientific research.
• Existing studies often lack the latest data and comprehensive analysis of research trends and collaborations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a bibliometric analysis of monkeypox research from 2014 to 2025.
• To identify research trends, collaboration patterns, and the impact of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of 2,076 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection (January 2014 - June 2025).
• Visualization of keyword co-occurrence, country, and institutional collaboration networks using VOSviewer.
• Inclusion of the latest data (2024-2025) and analysis of post-outbreak trends.

Main Results:

• Global research output showed three stages: low accumulation (2014-2021), a sharp surge post-2022, and a peak in 2023.
• Key research areas included viral transmission dynamics and clinical interventions.
• The US led country contributions, followed by China, India, and Saudi Arabia, with significant collaboration between health agencies and academic institutions.

Conclusions:

• The PHEIC effectively concentrated scientific resources for monkeypox research.
• Strengthening international collaboration is crucial for effectively managing future epidemic challenges.
• The study provides a dynamic and multifaceted analysis of the evolving research landscape.