2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Italy

2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Italy
Disease	Mpox
Virus strain	Monkeypox virus
Location	Italy
Index case	May 2022
Confirmed cases	1,000+ (as of October 2023)
Deaths	0

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Italy is part of the larger 2022–2023 mpox outbreak that has affected multiple countries worldwide. The outbreak in Italy began in May 2022, with the first confirmed case reported in Rome. Since then, the number of cases has increased, with over 1,000 confirmed cases reported by October 2023. The outbreak has prompted public health responses and raised awareness about the Monkeypox virus and its transmission.

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 milder. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. The virus is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus.

Outbreak Timeline

The first case of mpox in Italy was confirmed in May 2022. The patient had recently traveled to a country where mpox was known to be circulating. Following this initial case, additional cases were identified, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM), a group that has been disproportionately affected by the outbreak globally.

May 2022

The Italian Ministry of Health confirmed the first case of mpox in Rome. The patient was isolated, and contact tracing efforts were initiated to prevent further spread.

June 2022

By June, several additional cases were reported in major cities including Milan and Naples. Public health authorities increased surveillance and began public awareness campaigns to educate the public about the symptoms and transmission of mpox.

July 2022

The number of cases continued to rise, prompting the Italian government to implement vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and MSM.

2023

Throughout 2023, the outbreak persisted, with sporadic cases reported across the country. Public health measures, including vaccination and education campaigns, have been ongoing to control the spread of the virus.

Public Health Response

The Italian government, in collaboration with regional health authorities, has implemented several measures to control the outbreak. These include:

• Vaccination Campaigns: Targeted vaccination efforts have been directed at high-risk populations, including healthcare workers and MSM.
• Public Awareness: Information campaigns have been launched to educate the public about mpox symptoms, transmission, and prevention.
• Surveillance and Contact Tracing: Enhanced surveillance and contact tracing efforts have been critical in identifying and isolating cases to prevent further spread.

Impact

The mpox outbreak in Italy has highlighted the importance of rapid response and public health preparedness in managing emerging infectious diseases. While no deaths have been reported, the outbreak has placed a strain on healthcare resources and underscored the need for continued vigilance and vaccination efforts.

Also see

• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Monkeypox virus
• Vaccination campaigns in Italy
• Public health in Italy