2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Israel

2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Israel
Disease	Mpox
Virus strain	Monkeypox virus
Location	Israel
Index case	May 2022
Confirmed cases	300 (as of October 2023)
Deaths	0

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Israel is part of the global 2022–2023 mpox outbreak, which saw a significant rise in cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outside of its traditional endemic regions in Africa. The outbreak in Israel began in May 2022 and has been closely monitored by health authorities.

Background

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is similar to smallpox, though generally less severe. It was first discovered in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, and the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Outbreak in Israel

The first case of mpox in Israel during the 2022 outbreak was reported in May 2022. The patient had recently traveled to Western Europe, where several cases had been identified. Following this, the Israeli Ministry of Health issued guidelines for identifying and managing suspected cases of mpox.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission of the Monkeypox virus is through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials. In Israel, as in other countries, the outbreak was characterized by human-to-human transmission, particularly among networks of individuals with close physical contact.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that progresses through several stages before crusting and falling off. The rash often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.

Response and Management

The Israeli Ministry of Health implemented several measures to control the outbreak, including:

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Information was disseminated to the public about the symptoms of mpox and the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms developed.
• Vaccination: Israel procured doses of the smallpox vaccine, which is effective against mpox, and began vaccinating high-risk groups.
• Contact Tracing: Health authorities conducted contact tracing to identify and isolate individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.

Impact

As of October 2023, there have been 300 confirmed cases of mpox in Israel, with no reported deaths. The outbreak has been largely contained, with a significant decrease in new cases reported in recent months.

Also see

• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Monkeypox virus
• Smallpox vaccine
• Zoonotic diseases