Infectious respiratory particles exhaled by Clade IIb Mpox virus-infected macaques
Zhaoliang Chen1,2, Lei Zhang1, Linzhi Li1,3
1State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, People's Republic of China.
Emerging Microbes & Infections
|April 16, 2026
Summary
Mpox virus (MPXV) shedding in macaques suggests airborne transmission is possible. Infectious MPXV was found in respiratory coarse particles, indicating a potential route for human-to-human spread.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Airborne transmission of Mpox virus (MPXV) remains poorly understood.
- Challenges in tracking human Mpox cases hinder understanding of viral shedding patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate respiratory viral shedding and airborne transmissibility of MPXV.
- To characterize the role of particle size in MPXV airborne transmission.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of macaques with Clade IIb MPXV.
- Monitoring of respiratory viral shedding and airborne virus concentration.
- Analysis of viral load in exhaled particles and ambient air, categorized by particle size.
Main Results:
- MPXV-infected macaques exhibited significant respiratory shedding and continuous release of virus-laden particles.
- Peak viral load in exhaled particles and air occurred 11 days post-infection.
- Infectious MPXV was predominantly found in coarse respiratory particles (>7 μm), not fine particles.
Conclusions:
- This study provides evidence supporting airborne transmission of MPXV.
- Respiratory coarse particles are likely a significant vehicle for MPXV airborne transmission.
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