2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Europe

2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Europe
Disease	Mpox
Virus strain	Monkeypox virus
Location	Europe
First reported	May 2022

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Europe refers to the spread of the Monkeypox virus across various European countries, beginning in May 2022. This outbreak was part of a larger global resurgence of mpox cases, which were previously endemic primarily to certain regions in Africa.

Background

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is characterized by symptoms similar to those of smallpox, though generally less severe. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and the disease can lead to complications in some cases.

Historically, mpox has been confined to Central and West Africa, with occasional cases reported outside these regions, often linked to travel or imported animals. However, the 2022 outbreak marked a significant shift, with widespread transmission occurring in non-endemic countries.

Outbreak Timeline

The first cases in Europe were reported in May 2022, with initial clusters identified in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Portugal. The outbreak quickly spread to other countries, including Germany, France, and Italy.

May 2022

- The United Kingdom reported its first case on May 7, 2022, in a person who had traveled from Nigeria. - Subsequent cases were identified in Spain and Portugal, with clusters linked to social events and gatherings.

June 2022

- By June, the outbreak had spread to over 20 European countries. - The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on June 23, 2022.

2023

- The outbreak continued into 2023, with efforts focused on vaccination and public health measures to control the spread.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission during the outbreak was human-to-human contact, particularly through close physical contact with infected individuals. The virus can also spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing.

Public Health Response

European health authorities implemented various measures to control the outbreak, including: - Vaccination campaigns: Targeted vaccination of high-risk groups using the smallpox vaccine, which provides cross-protection against mpox. - Public awareness campaigns: Educating the public about symptoms, transmission, and prevention measures. - Contact tracing and isolation: Identifying and isolating cases to prevent further spread.

Impact

The outbreak had significant public health implications, straining healthcare systems and prompting international collaboration to address the spread. It also highlighted the need for improved surveillance and response strategies for emerging infectious diseases.

Also see

- Monkeypox - 2022–2023 mpox outbreak - Orthopoxvirus - Public Health Emergency of International Concern