2022–2023 mpox outbreak in France

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2022–2023 mpox outbreak in France
DiseaseMpox
Virus strainMonkeypox virus
LocationFrance
Index caseMay 2022
Confirmed cases4,000+ (as of October 2023)
Deaths
2
Government website
Santé Publique France


The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in France is part of a global outbreak of mpox, a viral disease caused by the Monkeypox virus. The outbreak in France began in May 2022 and has resulted in over 4,000 confirmed cases and 2 deaths as of October 2023.

Background[edit | edit source]

Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, which is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is endemic to parts of Central and West Africa, but the 2022 outbreak marked a significant spread to non-endemic countries, including France.

Timeline[edit | edit source]

May 2022[edit | edit source]

The first cases of mpox in France were reported in May 2022. Initial cases were linked to international travel and local transmission was soon confirmed.

June 2022[edit | edit source]

By June 2022, the number of cases had increased significantly, prompting public health authorities to issue guidelines on prevention and control measures.

July 2022[edit | edit source]

In July 2022, the World Health Organization declared the mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, highlighting the need for coordinated international response.

2023[edit | edit source]

Throughout 2023, the number of cases continued to rise, albeit at a slower rate. Vaccination campaigns and public health measures were implemented to control the spread of the virus.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

The outbreak in France has primarily affected men who have sex with men (MSM), although cases have been reported in other demographics. The virus is transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials.

Public Health Response[edit | edit source]

The French government, through Santé Publique France, has implemented several measures to control the outbreak, including:

  • Vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk populations.
  • Public awareness campaigns to educate the public about symptoms and prevention.
  • Contact tracing to identify and isolate cases.

Clinical Features[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash. The rash typically progresses from macules to papules, vesicles, and pustules before crusting over.

Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include vaccination and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Treatment is primarily supportive, although antiviral medications such as tecovirimat may be used in severe cases.

Also see[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD